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GroupTour
NORTHEASTERN
Mall
Madness
There’s no store too big,
no treasure too buried
Winter 2015
GroupTour.com
Milwaukee
Boston
Valley Forge
FrederictoN
DubliN, Ireland
special gaming guide
G R E AT S T O R I E S
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of $393 million
in
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looking forward to riding this energy to
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Mon • Mon • Mon
3
What’s inside
Departments
Winter 2015 • Vol. 28 / No. 11
6
8
10
11
FROM THE
EDITOR
NEWS &
NOTES
OFF THE
BEATEN PATH
WHAT’S FOR
DINNER?
Features
12
112
Mall madness
Cheer, beer and literature
Guinness and Joyce await in Dublin
There’s no store too big, no treasure too buried
16
great lakes REGION
ILLINOIS
Minnesota
Indiana
Missouri
18
19
Milwaukee
Wisconsin’s largest city shines
20
21
22
24
25
Itinerary — Chocolate lovers discover delight in Blackhawk Waterways
Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
Itinerary — Take Hendricks County’s Hoosier culture and culinary tour
French Lick Resort
Huntington County antiques
Vera Bradley Outlet Sale, Fort Wayne
Derby Dinner Playhouse
Iowa
26
27
27
Itinerary — Southeast Iowa offers
history and relaxation
American Gothic House Center
Living History Farms
Michigan
On the cover:
©iStockphoto.com/tachyglossus
4
Group Tour / NORTHEASTERN
Winter 2015 • GroupTour.com
28 Itinerary — Say ‘Welkom’ to Holland
30 Detroit Zoo
32 Michigan’s Heritage Park at Hilt’s Landing
33S.S. Badger
34Manistee
35 Grand Rapids culinary
36 Star of Saugatuck Boat Cruises
38
39
40
42
43
43
Itinerary — Find it and buy it in Minnesota
Mall of America
Grand Portage National Monument
Itinerary — Uncover Columbia’s
art, food and history
Lake of the Ozarks
Missouri State Museum
Ohio
44
45
48
Itinerary — Find wings and
wheels in Trumbull County
The Lodge & Conference Center
at Geneva-on-the-Lake
Cincinnati Museum Center
Wisconsin
52 Itinerary — Kenosha’s shopping
opportunities draw groups
53Janesville
54Stoughton
56
NEW ENGLAND REGION
CONNECTICUT
58
59
59
Itinerary — Plumb Fairfield County’s art, architecture and maritime heritage
Mystic Seaport
New England Air Museum
Maine
Boston
Go for history, stay to shop
60
61
61
Itinerary — Shopping and entertainment enliven Belfast’s coast
Wadsworth-Longfellow House
Katahdin Cruises
Massachusetts
62 Itinerary — Discover America’s story
in Merrimack Valley
63Stonehurst
64 Tower Hill Botanic Garden
74
76
77
77
Itinerary — Escape to
Delaware’s grand estates
Nemours Mansion & Gardens
Nanticoke Indian Museum
Maryland
History, shopping and fun activities engage
groups in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania
98
78
79
80
Itinerary — Find the jewels
of Chesapeake Bay
Maryland religious history
Assateague Island National Seashore
New Jersey
81
82
Itinerary — Browse New Jersey’s
trendiest shopping hubs
Grounds for Sculpture
100 Itinerary — Savor Nova Scotia’s
rich culinary and horticulture history
101 Tangled Garden
Ontario
Good fun, good times and good company
await north of the border
Itinerary — Sip brews in
wintry New Hampshire
Currier Museum of Art
Rhode Island
68
69
Itinerary — Island and city
adventures await in Rhode Island
Newport and Narragansett Bay
Railroad Co.
Vermont
70
71
72
Itinerary — Explore Vermont’s
African-American heritage trail
Lake Champlain Chocolates
Merck Forest and Farmland Center
New York
84
85
86
87
88
Itinerary — Find castles, lakes and
grapes galore in the Finger Lakes
Boldt Castle
Metropolitan Museum of Art
Broadway.com/Group Sales Box Office
Whitney Museum of American Art
Pennsylvania
90
92
92
Itinerary — Pocono Mountains
merge excitement and tranquility
Savor Gettysburg Food Tours
One Liberty Observation Deck
Washington, D.C.
94
95
95
96
Itinerary — Play in the president’s backyard
The Kennedy Center
Madame Tussauds Washington D.C.
National Air and Space Museum,
Washington, D.C.
EASTERN CANADA REGION
ATLANTIC CANADA
Fredericton
66
67
MID-ATLANTIC REGION
DELAWARE
Valley Forge
New Hampshire
102
103
104
105
106
Itinerary — Experience urban
delights and attractions in Toronto
National Gallery of Canada
Bata Shoe Museum
Art Gallery of Ontario
Ottawa Tourism
107 Journey Behind the Falls
108 Science North
109 Stratford Shakespeare Festival
Quebec
110 Itinerary — First Nations
hospitality awaits in Wendake
111Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean
116 Gaming Guide
126 Advertiser Index
Nov • Dec • Jan
5
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Publisher
Elly DeVries I President
Editorial
Mary Lu Laffey I Editor
David Hoekman I Managing Editor
Courtney Rivette I Web Editor
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FROM THE
EDITOR
Art
Mark Dryer I Art Director
Jan Teeple I Graphic Designer
Audience Development
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Full disclosure. I once carried a 5-foot, papier-mâché flamingo
home from a trip to Mexico. I removed the spindly wroughtiron legs to place beneath the seat in front of me and wedged the
bubble-wrapped body in the overhead.
That was child’s play compared to paying overweight charges
for wine purchases in the Texas Hill Country. At home, as I
unpacked and lamented my monetary misstep to my adult
daughter, she showed no sympathy as she reminded me it was
possible to buy wine in the very city where we lived.
The most memorable items? Hard to say as the time, the
mood and the other members of the group all play into how
cherished an item becomes. Once, a group of us on a golf tour
at La Cantera resort near San Antonio walked through the golf
shop and purposely purchased the same neck scarf. With eight
scarves less in the inventory, the clerk was happy, we were happy
and each time I wear my scarf? I am happy.
Shopping on a group tour provides a wonderful opportunity for members of the group to return home with a tangible
memory to help them relive the experience of the trip.
In our cover story, Mall Madness, we report on great shopping
stops where groups can have that experience. We also covered
another group tour experience, cooking classes at the New York
Wine & Culinary Center in the Finger Lakes Region of New York.
When I followed the Literary Pub Crawl tour in Dublin, the
experience led me into historic pubs and provided a literary lesson as well. I came home with high tales and a wonderful book
to help me relive the evening.
Between the 128 pages of the 2015 winter issue of Group Tour
Northeastern magazine, find 24 itineraries, five featured cities
that most certainly provide good shopping memories and lots
more articles to pique the interest of tour groups. Safe travels.
Ben Skidmore I Ben@GroupTour.com
972.587.9064 I AK, CO, ID, KS,
MT, ND, NE, OK, SD, WY, TX
Alan Lininger I Alan@GroupTour.com
717-967-0121 I IL, NC, SC, VA, WV, KY
Mary Lu Laffey
editor@grouptour.com
@MaryLuGroupTour
Marlene Smith I Marlene@GroupTour.com
231-933-4900 I AR, AL, FL, GA, LA, MS
Tom Ward I Tom@GroupTour.com
530-676-2601 I AZ, CA, HI, NM, NV, UT, OR, W
POSTMASTER
Send address changes to Group Tour Magazine,
2465 112th Ave., Holland, MI 49424-9657.
P.S. Hospitality still reigns in the American South. The winter
issue of Group Tour Southeastern magazine invites groups to
step onto the glorious and often glamorous plantations in the
American South. Plus, there’s a dozen itineraries to roam this
gracious part of our world. It’s on desks and online Dec. 1.
Group Tour Magazine® USPS #016-239 is published
four times per year in three different regionalized editions by
Group Tour Media, 2465 112th Ave., Holland, Michigan
49424-9657. Periodical Postage is paid at Holland, Michigan
and additional mailing offices.
6
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Nov • Dec • Jan
7
News &
Notes
News &
Notes
Cincinnati Art Museum opens
new antiquities gallery
Cincinnati Art Museum’s permanent collection of Western antiquities has been
reinstalled in new first-floor galleries.
Visitors begin their journey through the history of art with the story of ancient Western civilizations and Egyptian, Greek and Roman objects
that are organized thematically for the first time.
The installation includes some pieces that have
never been on view before.
State-of-the-art interactive touch tables enable the visitor to experience the ancient world
through 21st-century technology. Iconic pieces,
such as an ancient Egyptian mummy,
an imposing Greek funerary lion, as well as Greek
and Roman items from the daily life, are on view.
Adult package tours include express check-in,
Egypt, Mummy Sarcophagus,
a
docent-led
tour around a topic of the group’s
Ptolemaic period, 332-30 B.C., wood with
painted decoration in tempera over linen
choice, shopping discounts and a welcome gift.
and gesso, Cincinnati Art Museum,
513-639-2975, cincinnatiartmuseum.org
Gift of Millard F. and Edna F. Shelt, 1947.275
Servants’ lives on view at
Connecticut mansion
In Norwalk, Connecticut, a major new exhibit at the Lockwood-Mathews
Mansion Museum, “The Stairs Below,” reveals the hidden lives of servants at the
mansion.
Curated by Kathleen Motes Bennewitz, the exhibit aims to make real the “invisible” workers who made the lavish household run, especially the Irish immigrants
and African-Americans whose livelihoods depended on their wealthy employers.
Visitors follow the servants’ paths through the mansion, experiencing three distinct
worlds — the public, family and
staff lives — during the mansion’s seven decades as a private
residence.
While the domestic servants
worked 10-hour shifts seven days
a week, they did retire to comfortable quarters, which are open
to the public for the first time.
The exhibit will continue
through Oct. 20, 2016.
The mansion is considered
one of the earliest and most
significant Second Empire-style
country houses in the United States. Built by financier and railroad baron LeGrand
Lockwood between 1864 and 1868, the mansion, with its Gilded Age interiors and
furniture, illustrates the splendor of the Victorian era.
Groups of eight or more require a minimum two-week reservation. 203-8389799, ext. 6, info@lockwoodmathewsmansion.com, lockwoodmathewsmansion.com
Photo: Lockwood Mathews Mansion
8
Delaware thanks
group travel pros
The Delaware Tourism Office’s Delaware Motorcoach Rewards Program is well
received by tour planners and visitors.
This online incentive and appreciation
program provides free advance welcome
gifts to tour and travel professionals for
distribution to their groups of 15 or more
members that visit at least one Delaware
attraction. Overnight visitors receive a gift
of greater value. Motorcoach visits can be
registered online.
“Tour operators love the program,
because it’s a free way for them to boost a
tour’s appeal among customers,” said Tina
Madanat, the Delaware Tourism Office’s
group tour sales leader. “It also gives the
visitors a tangible keepsake of their trip
and keeps Delaware top-of-mind. We
find it’s also a great tool for developing
positive and long-lasting relationships
with operators.” 302-672-6834,
visitdelaware.com/groups/dmrp
Mystic hosting
New England Group
Travel Show
New England Travel Showcase has
announced the dates and location for the
second annual 2016 New England Group
Travel Show.
NETS will be held June 13 and 14,
2016, at the Mystic Hilton Hotel in Mystic, Connecticut.
Sponsors can save by booking early,
and the first 48 operators will receive
FAM tour invitations.
“The New England Travel Showcase is
an affordable way to discover and plan exceptional New England group vacations,”
said organizer Katrina White.
Registration opened Oct. 1.
Hilton Mystic is located near the area’s
top attractions. Visit the Mystic Aquarium
Institute for Exploration or Olde Mystic
Village’s shops. Wander through Mystic
Seaport to learn more about coastal life
in the 19th century. katwhite8@gmail.com,
newenglandtravelshowcase.com
Exhibit explores religious practices
On view through Feb. 21, 2016, at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis,
is the exhibit “National Geographic Sacred Journeys.”
The new exhibit reflects the diversity of religious and spiritual pilgrimage
through immersive environments created with photography from National
Geographic.
The exhibit features rare and sacred artifacts from around the world. The
collection includes fragments of the Dead Sea Scrolls, a 1,300-pound stone from
the Western Wall of the second Jewish temple in Jerusalem, items taken by astronaut David Wolf into space
(a mezuzah, a daily prayer
bowl, a Shofar and Yad), a
gold embroidered Kiswah, the
replica of the Shroud of Turin,
Brigham Young’s trunk,
a special throne made for
the Dalai Lama, a peace sand
mandala created onsite by
Tashi Kyil Buddhist monks
and a statue of Hindu god
Ganesh.
The purpose of this experience is to foster cultural
awareness and understanding.
This world-class exhibit is free with a general admission ticket to The Children’s Museum. Groups of 20 or more qualify for reduced admission to the museum. Advance reservations are required at least two weeks before the visit date.
317-334-4000, childrensmuseum.org
Photo: Children’s museum of Indianapolis
Montreal Museum
of Fine Arts’ fashion
exhibit headed to Seoul
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts has
announced the 12th leg in the world tour of
its exhibition, “The Fashion World of Jean
Paul Gaultier.” The stop will be in Seoul,
South Korea.
Presented in collaboration with EduChosun, a division of Chosun Media, from March
26 to June 30, 2016, the exhibition will be
presented at the brand-new DDP Dongdeamun Design Plaza.
The first exhibition devoted to the French
couturier, “The Fashion World of Jean Paul
Gaultier” has already been seen by close to 2
million visitors since it opened in Montreal,
where it was created in 2011. It has been
shown in Dallas, San Francisco, Madrid, Rotterdam, Stockholm, New York, London and
Melbourne. The presentation at the Grand
Palais in Paris, which closed on Aug, 3, was an
unqualified success with the highest attendance of any leg of the tour: 418,000 visitors.
Before traveling to Seoul, the exhibition is
being presented at the Kunsthalle in Munich
now through Feb. 14, 2016. mbam.qc.ca/en
Group Tours Always Welcome
Open at 11am Daily
Plenty of Coach Parking
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Nov • Dec • Jan
9
OFF THE BEATEN PATH
Winning formula
St. Charles
group tours
Mardi Gras World,
New Orleans
Customer service and engagement boost trips program
By David Hoekman
For John Pike, it’s a simple equation.
Pike, trip planner for the St. Charles
Parks & Recreation Department’s
trips program in St. Charles, Missouri,
believes the program’s emphasis on
customer service and engagement with
customers has led to its success.
Photo: St. Charles Parks & recreation board
Treating the customer right
“The one thing that we stress here in
our program
is customer
John Pike,
service to
trip planner
the traveler,”
Pike said.
“That’s our
mantra. Our
customer
base is growing by leaps
and bounds.
I think
people are
buying into it. We are getting repeat
customers and new customers.”
The department’s extended trips generally sell out in a matter of days.
Motorcoach coolers are full of soda
and water, snacks are plentiful and
travelers are encouraged to let the escorts know if they need anything.
Pike is retired from the airline industry, working for TWA for 34 years and
for American Airlines for three years.
“When I retired, I wanted a little
something to do,” Pike said. “The part
of the job that I like is the interaction
10
with the people. I absolutely love it. For
me, it’s a passion. Most of our travelers
are seniors, and they like it when you
engage with them.
“We try to make everybody feel like
they are part of a family. We make a point
to talk to everybody on the trip. Typically,
at the dinners I will rotate around the
tables and sit with different people just to
make them feel comfortable.”
For the past 11 years, Pike, a parttime employee, has built itineraries and
secured contracts for the department’s
extensive program of day and extended
trips. He even escorts some of the trips.
“We do roughly 50 day trips a year
and most are in St. Charles, to theaters
and unique events,” Pike said. “About
a 2½-hour drive is our limit. On our
extended trips, which may last from
three days to nine days, we generally do
five to seven a year.”
The wow effect
For extended trips, travelers are looking for attractions and activities that are
a bit different or unknown, Pike said.
“I’m constantly looking for things
that are unique and a little bit different and things you don’t normally see.
That’s what travelers seem to thrive on.”
For example, the Vent Haven Museum in Fort Mitchell, Kentucky, the only
museum dedicated to ventriloquism,
made a fascinating stop.
Destinations with a wow effect, like
Mackinac Island, Michigan, sell well,
Pike said. On that trip, a stop at Hop
Head Farms, a hops farm, and Holland’s Tulip Time festival, were also hits.
Pike and the team at park and
recreation department are working on
developing trips for baby boomers; that
is, trips with more free time.
Experiential trend
Pike said the trip program is leaning
toward more experiential and hand-on
activities in its tours.
A trip to Niagara Falls and New
York’s Finger Lakes region will include
candle-making in Columbus, Ohio,
and a make-your-own glass pumpkin
experience at the Corning Museum of
Glass in Corning, New York.
“We did a Christmas trip to Chicago
last year, and they did a wreath-making
class,” Pike said.
Technology rolls on
Posting tour photos during extended
tours on the department’s Facebook
page has proven to be very popular.
A picture book, using an online service and escorts’ tour photos, is sent to
extended trip customers as a thank you.
“I just have to be sure we have a
picture of every traveler in that book,”
Pike said. “And they absolutely love
those picture books.”S
St. Charles Parks & Recreation Board
636-949-3580
stcharlesparks.com
Top Photo: John Pike
WHAT’S FOR DINNER?
Wine tasting,
New York Wine
& Culinary Center,
Canandaigua, N.Y.
Eating lessons
New York Wine & Culinary Center showcases state’s bounty
By Susan R. Pollack
Photo: New York Wine & Culinary Center
aked chardonnay or a Lake Erie pinot
grigio, or New York craft beers such as
Naked Dove’s blackberry ale.
“People are shocked to learn how
the New York wine industry has grown;
we have over 400 wineries,” Taft said.
“And now craft beers and distilleries
are taking off too.”
New York Wine & Culinary Center,
Canandaigua, N.Y.
Large screens on both sides of the
amphitheater showcase the cooking
action.
“Whether the chef is chopping fresh
herbs for salad dressing or rolling out
dough for a fruit tart, participants can
see exactly what’s happening,” Taft said.
Sometimes, an audience member
is recruited to assist. And, Taft said,
“People can shout out questions any
time.”
The basic two-course option
Photo: Susan R. Pollack
Going to school is fun at the New
York Wine & Culinary Center in
Canandaigua, gateway to New York’s
scenic Finger Lakes region.
That’s because there are no books,
no homework and, best of all, groups
get to eat the “lessons” prepared in the
classroom, the center’s Wine Spectator
Theater.
Chef Jeffory McLean, fondly known
as “Cheffory,” leads the culinary education team.
Cheffory or a member of his team
teaches knife skills while deftly chopping fresh New York produce. They
transform seasonal local ingredients
into delectable dishes served as two- or
three-course lunches or dinners, depending on what tour groups pre-order.
Groups ranging in size from 20 to
55 persons are welcome, said Karen
Taft, event sales director, though 40–50
is optimal. The escort and bus driver
get free meals, and there’s free parking at the 9-year-old center, which is
dedicated to showcasing New York’s
agricultural bounty.
More than 50 bus tour groups annually attend chef-led cooking demonstrations and meals at the center.
Five tasting flights of New York
state wines or beers are optional meal
accompaniments. A beverage instructor discusses the finer points of, say,
Canandaigua’s own Heron Hill uno-
features a choice of grilled sirloin
steak or grilled chicken breast served
with whipped potatoes and a seasonal
vegetable, plus a tarte tatin dessert. The
three-course option adds a salad and
a choice of entree: pan-seared salmon
or steak, plus chicken or a vegetarian
option. The meal, including two chef
demonstrations, is served with risotto
and vegetables, plus a choice of seasonal tart or scone. The deluxe threecourse option offers a “duet” entrée of
salmon and sirloin steak, salad and side
dishes, plus a seasonal panna cotta dessert, virtually eliminating pre-ordering
“fuss,” Taft said.
Lunch groups arrive around 11:30
a.m. and dinner groups at 5 or 5:30
p.m. for the 90-minute demonstration
program, which stretches to two hours
with the beverage-tasting option.
Participants also receive a guided
tour of the culinary center, including
flower and herb gardens, a Medieval
Spanish-style Sands Gallery, a tasting
room and an upper deck restaurant
overlooking boat-studded Canandaigua Lake. Groups receive a 10 percent
discount on New York vinegars, sauces,
salts, granola and other local products
in the Culinary Boutique.S
New York Wine & Culinary Center
585-394-7070
nywcc.com
Nov • Dec • Jan
11
Mall madness
There’s no store too big, no treasure too buried
Photo: ©istockphoto.com/andresr
By Erin Albanese
S
hop till you drop. Unwind with a little retail
therapy. When the going gets tough, the tough go shopping.
Regardless of their mantra, many groups are eager to
spend days at stores and retail centers. They leave malls
with armloads of clothes, shoes and handbags, and hop
on the motorcoach ready for more. For the tourism and
retail industries, shopping is a huge boon, said Rosemary McCormick, president of Shop America Alliance,
a travel-trade organization representing hundreds of the
premier shopping tourism destinations.
Retailers look forward to international groups who
come for great deals on designer fashions, like Kate
Spade purses and luxury watches from Tourneau. Domestic senior and student groups head to food courts to
grab lunch or a latte before seeking their favorite brands
at outlet prices.
“Group tours can make a major impact on the tourism business,” McCormick said. “Almost all group tours
are seeking added value, so outlets are very popular as
well as major retailers, like Macy’s.”
Groups can book tours through the Shop America
Alliance, which partners with top shopping centers,
retailers and outlets across the country.
“They really roll out the red carpet for groups,” she
said. Special benefits like free lunch and VIP savings for
group tours pay off.
“International groups are power shoppers and can literally clean out a store,” she said. “Some COACH stores
have had to limit the number of handbags that each
Chinese guest can purchase. GNC also is popular with
Asian shoppers seeking quality health supplements, and
they also can clear the shelves quickly.”
Not only do deal-crazy groups love to find the goods,
they like the variety available at hotspots across the
country, where fashion, deals and finding that perfect
item is part of the fun. These retail centers leave no
shopper empty-handed.
Photo: ©istockphoto.com/baona
12
Mall of America and
Twin Cities Premium
Outlets, Minnesota
Twin Cities Premium Outlets
612-444-8850
premiumoutlets.com/twincities
Mall of America,
Bloomington, Minn.
King of Prussia,
Pennsylvania
A king-sized shopping
center must satisfy his
majesty and royal court.
Reflected by its name, the King of Prussia Mall, including the connected Court and the Plaza at King of Prussia,
has enough offerings to please everyone from queen to
jester. Every taste and budget, from luxury to national and
international brand retailers is represented, and groups
can feast at three unique food courts.
The iconic 52-year-old mall, in the city of King of
Prussia, features a diverse mix of more than 400 stores,
including a collection of luxury retailers unsurpassed
on the East Coast such as Nordstrom, Macy’s, Neiman
Marcus, Bloomingdale’s and Lord & Taylor.
Just 20 minutes from the mall is another must-see —
Philadelphia Premium Outlets, a Simon Center — also
perfect for any group to find what they love with 150
stores to choose from.
King of Prussia Mall,
King of Prussia, Pa.
Photo: Miles Kennedy
Mall of America
952-853-0612
mallofamerica.com
Photo: Mall of America
The best example of a super mall is perhaps the Mall of America in Bloomington,
Minnesota, minutes from downtown
Minneapolis and Saint Paul.
At the Mall of America, 12,000 groups tour annually to shop
and visit attractions like an indoor amusement park, a miniature golf course and an aquarium. The state exempts clothing
from tax, making the deals even sweeter.
Now, the biggest shopping center in the nation is getting even
bigger. Currently undergoing a 750,000-square-foot expansion
to add to its 2.5 million square feet, Mall of America will soon
sport a signature entrance. The development will include a 342room JW Marriott Hotel and more than 150,000 square feet of
new retail space, dining options, meeting facilities and parking.
Of course, shoppers also make time to check out the discounts at Twin Cities Premium Outlets, in nearby Eagan, just 5
miles from Mall of America. Part of Simon Premium Outlets,
shoppers find savings of 25 to 65 percent at 100 stores. Custom
packages are available for groups.
King of Prussia Mall
317-636-1600
simon.com/mall/
king-of-prussia
Philadelphia Premium Outlets
610-495-9000
premiumoutlets.com/philadelphia
Nov • Dec • Jan
13
Nine West,
Freeport, Maine
Photo: Freeport USA
The wild beauty of Maine is best
discovered with some time to fit in
the state’s favorite outlet shopping
destination, Freeport, Maine.
Home to L.L. Bean Flagship Store, Freeport is the birthplace
of the Maine Hunting Boot, created more than 100 years ago
by outdoorsman Leon Leonwood Bean who wanted functional
boots for traversing the Maine woods.
Along with L.L. Bean, the historic shipbuilding community stepped out early as the place to buy shoes, and today, it
remains famous for footwear with outlet shoe stores rang-
Clarks, Main Street,
Freeport, Maine
Photo: Freeport USA
Freeport,
Maine
ing from Allen Edmunds, Clarks, Cole Haan, Nine West
and Sperry Topsider. The vibrant shopping community has
everything else as well: clothing and purse stores, restaurants
and farmers markets, chocolatiers and home goods. Recently
opened shops include The Walking Company, Sashay’s, Maine
Wicked Goods Mercantile and Coastal Maine Popcorn.
“It’s very pedestrian-friendly,” said Kelly Edwards, executive
director for the business association FreeportUSA. “You can
walk wherever you want to go.”
Groups are greeted by FreeportUSA representatives in front
of the L.L. Bean Store, with guidebooks and coupon books.
FreeportUSA
207-865-1212
freeportusa.com
Magnificent Mile feels purely Chicago.
With stores galore to peruse while fitting
in a visit to the Windy City, groups are
always in awe of The North Michigan Avenue District of Chicago, also known as The
Magnificent Mile, which offers 465 brands
with over 50 flagship locations, including
international brands, local boutiques and luxury labels.
Always bustling with walkers in one of the most pedestrian-friendly places in the world, there is everything from
TJ Max to Burberry to suit groups’ tastes. Seventy hotels are
located in the district.
The Magnificent Mile is a highlight in a city filled with
attractions. Nearby, Navy Pier with its famous Ferris wheel
stretches out onto Lake Michigan; the John Hancock Center
welcomes visitors, and the Chicago Shakespeare Theater and
the Art Institute of Chicago offer rich culture.
The Magnificent Mile
312-344-2330
themagnificentmile.com
14
Michigan Avenue shopping,
Chicago
Photo: © City of Chicago
The Magnificent Mile,
Chicago, Illinois
Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market, Indiana
“There are antiques,
collectibles, arts
and crafts, home
decor and lawn and
garden goods.” The auction started in 1922 and the
“Midwest’s Largest
Flea Market” grew
organically around
it as peddlers came
to sell their wares.
Every Tuesday and
Wednesday in May
through early OcShipshewana Auction & Flea Market,
tober, the market’s
Shipshewana, Ind.
900 spaces spread
across 100 acres.
Antique auctions are held every Wednesday year-round in the
Trading Place Shipshewana Auction and Miscellaneous Barn.
An Antique Gallery offers 31,000 square feet of treasures to
peruse. Horse auctions are held every Friday.
Since discovering the right find takes time, nearby Farmstead Inn offers lodging and a conference center for all sizes
of groups.S
Photo: Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market
Hunting for treasures and
trinkets of every kind is a
perfect pastime for groups
at Shipshewana Auction and
Flea Market in Shipshewana,
Indiana. Located in Amish country, the entire culture of the
area is tied to old-time living, antiques and shopping for
everything from fresh produce to handcrafted furniture.
“There’s something for everyone as far as diversity and
variety,” said Lora Gates, Shipshewana marketing director.
Photo: Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market
Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market,
Shipshewana, Ind.
Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market
260-768-4129
tradingplaceamerica.com
Shopping tidbits
• Shopping for pleasure is no longer a purely incidental • Tanger Factory Outlet Centers Inc., headquartered in
activity to dip into while traveling for leisure. For millions
Greensboro, North Carolina, operates and owns, or has
of today’s tourists, it represents the principle — or one of an ownership interest in, a portfolio of 47 upscale outlet
the principle — motivations for traveling.
shopping centers in 24 states and in Canada. Tanger Outlet Source: World Tourism Organization (2014), AM Reports, Volume eight Global Report
Centers attract more than 185 million shoppers annually.
on Shopping Tourism, United Nations World Tourism Organization, Madrid
shopping experiences include 85 Simon Premium • Shop America Alliance’s programs include Shop America • Simon’s
Outlets in the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, Japan, Tours, with 175-plus commissionable shopping, dining and Malaysia, Mexico and South Korea, in addition to Simon cultural heritage packages. Shop America Tours also include Malls and Simon Mills shopping centers. Simon Property itineraries in 40 cities that are sold via major tour operators Group’s headquarters is in Indianapolis, Indiana.
worldwide and at shopamericatours.com.
BONUS CONTENT
Museums often have superb stores,
carrying everything from funky finds to fine art.
Find the details at grouptour.com/bonus.
Nov • Dec • Jan
15
GREAT LAKES Region
Photo: Group Tour Media/David Hoekman
Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee
Milwaukee
Wisconsin’s largest city shines
By David Hoekman
Groups touring Milwaukee quickly discover a
lot is happening in Wisconsin’s largest city, located
on the western shore of Lake Michigan and at the
confluence of three rivers.
Led by the Milwaukee Art Museum, which is reopening in November after a $30 million renovation,
the city boasts a thriving arts scene.
In the summer, Henry W. Maier Festival Park,
along the shores of Lake Michigan, plays host to a
festival nearly every weekend.
Groups can investigate Milwaukee’s German beer
brewing heritage and a burgeoning locally sourced
culinary movement.
Plus, there’s the energy and ongoing story of
Harley-Davidson Motor Company, the motorcycle
manufacturer headquartered in Milwaukee.
Art
The Milwaukee Art Museum is known for its
moveable wing-like sunscreen designed by international architect Santiago Calatrava. Chief curator
Brady Roberts said the renovation will elevate the
museum’s collection by opening up and adding to
the display spaces.
“The floor plan was a maze,” Roberts said. “We
are wiping the slate clean and starting over.”
In the permanent collection are works by Claude
16
Monet, Andy Warhol and Pablo Picasso, and a sizable Georgia O’Keeffe collection.
The Pfister Hotel’s large collection of Victorian
art is displayed in the historic hotel. The hotel’s
artist-in-residence can conduct tours.
Grohmann Museum at Milwaukee School of Engineering concentrates on art representing the evolution of human work, and the Marquette University
Haggerty Museum of Art offers tours and programs.
Heritage
For a good orientation to Milwaukee’s geography
and history, take Milwaukee Food & City Tour’s
Explore Milwaukee: Sightseeing Tour.
German immigrants brought their beer-brewing
expertise to Milwaukee in the 19th century. With
legendary German brewers like Blatz, Pabst, Schiltz
and Miller, beer is what made Milwaukee famous.
To see how Captain Frederick Pabst lived, tour
Pabst Mansion, completed in 1892. It’s now the
epitome of Gilded Age splendor in Milwaukee. Pabst
captained vessels on the Great Lakes before getting
involved in his father-in-law’s brewery business in
the mid-1860s.
Pabst’s former home is full of ornately handcrafted woodwork, original silk wall coverings, elegant
furnishings and beautiful stained glass.
GREAT
LAKES
Region
Photo: Potawatomi Hotel & Casino
Hotel lobby,
Potawatomi
Hotel & Casino,
Milwaukee
receive a menu. A bartender guides the patron to a
cocktail to suit his or her tastes, while a vintage highend McIntosh stereo system pumps out classic jazz
and pop tunes.
Minnesota
Wisconsin
Michigan
Iowa
Ohio
Illinois
Indiana
Missouri
Milwaukee Public Market,
Milwaukee
“The story of Captain and Maria Pabst is flat out
an American rags to riches story,” said Dawn M. Day
Hourigan, executive director.
History roars to life at the Harley-Davidson Museum. Starting with the first Harley ever produced
in 1903, the museum’s two floors present the people
and products of the company.
The museum’s Bikes, Brats & Beer Tour, offered
in partnership with Milwaukee Food & City Tours,
covers the city’s brewing history and sausage-making
heritage.
Milwaukee’s German heritage is evident on Old
World Third Street, where there haven’t been a lot of
changes in 100 years. By contrast, the Historic Third
Ward has changed a lot, as the old warehouse district
is now a trendy neighborhood with boutiques, art
galleries and the Milwaukee Public Market, a perfect
spot for an on-your-own lunch. Walker’s Point is a
foodie’s paradise.
Sprecher Brewing Company and Lakefront
Brewery offer tours of their microbreweries.
A good way to see a lot of the city in a short period of time is to take a Riverwalk Boat Tour on the
Milwaukee River. The route goes underneath bridges,
past landmarks and includes a view of the Milwaukee skyline from Lake Michigan.
Discovery World, located on the Lake Michigan waterfront, connects innovation, science and
technology with the environment and Great Lakes
freshwater resources.
“From live science demonstrations to interactive
exhibits, Discovery World prides itself on being the
area’s top science and technology center,” said Paul
Fladten, public relations manager.
An exhibit devoted to guitarist and recording innovator Les Paul, who grew up in nearby Waukesha,
Wisconsin, displays recorders and guitars from Paul’s
personal collection. Paul died in 2009 at the age of 94.
Frank Sinatra’s ghost would feel right at home at
Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge, where customers do not
Illinois
p.18
Indiana
p.20
Recreation
To check out Milwaukee’s neighborhoods and
parks, and get some exercise, rent a bicycle from
Bublr Bikes, Milwaukee’s bike-share program,
established in 2014. Riders take a bike, cycle around
the city and return the bike to any Bublr kiosk.
Or rent a kayak from Milwaukee Kayak Company, which offers kayak, canoe and standup paddleboard rentals on the Milwaukee River with easy
access to the Menomonee and Kinnickinnic rivers.
Lodging
One of Milwaukee’s newer hotels is the Potawatomi Hotel & Casino. The 19-story property’s 381
rooms opened in 2014 and received a LEED Gold
designation from the U.S. Green Building Council
earlier this year.
Ryan Amundson, external communications
manager, said the hotel and casino have come a long
way since 1991, when the bingo hall with picnicstyle seating opened as the first legalized gaming
in Milwaukee. The casino now offers more than
2,600 video and reel slot machines, nearly 100 table
games, 20 poker tables, a 1,350-seat bingo hall and a
5,000-square-foot off-track betting room.
The hotel joins lodging favorites such as the Hilton Milwaukee City Center and The Pfister Hotel.S
Iowa
p.26
Michigan
p.28
Minnesota
p.38
Missouri
p.42
Ohio
p.44
Wisconsin
p.52
Visit Milwaukee
800-231-0903
visitmilwaukee.org
Wisconsin Department of Tourism
800-432-8747
travelwisconsin.com
Nov
• Dec••Mon
Jan
Mon
• Mon
17
17
Itinerary/ ILLINOIS
Baker Street, Dixon
GO
Byron and Oregon
EAT
Maxson Riverside Restaurant
800-468-4222
maxsons.net
Robin’z Nest
815-973-0728
White Pines Inn
815-946-3817
whitepinesinn.com
SHOP
Conover Coffee & Chocolates
815-732-7017
conovercoffees.com
Eagle’s Nest
815-732-2523
Merlin’s Greenhouse and Flower
and The Other Side Boutique
815-732-2969
Oregon Soap Shoppe
866-411-6614
oregonsoapshoppe.com
STAY
Paddle Wheel Inn
815-732-0900
paddlewheelinnil.com
ASK
Blackhawk Waterways
Convention & Visitors Bureau
815-946-2108
visitnorthwestillinois.com
Blackhawk Waterways Convention and
Visitors Bureau in northwest Illinois shares
this chocolate lovers itinerary, available for
groups of 25 or more.
drive along the Rock River and check in
at the Paddle Wheel Inn. Enjoy a view of
the Rock River from one of the river-view
rooms. Upon arrival, the inn will provide
chocolate lovers with a variety of chocolate
treats in each room if the group books
through Blackhawk Waterways CVB.
After checking in, go across the street
to Maxson Riverside Restaurant for an
upscale dinner. Stroll along the Rock River
or book a tour via the Pride of Oregon
paddlewheel riverboat.
Return to the hotel.
Day One
Enjoy a light lunch with a chocolate
dessert at Hailey’s Winery in Byron. Indulge in a glass of one of their wines. Hailey’s offers nine varieties of wine from dry
to sweet. Their specialty is raspberry wine.
Travel south on the scenic Route 2
Highway along the river to Conover Square
in Oregon. Spend time
wandering through its
Day Two
many distinctive shops.
After a refreshing
The complex was built
night’s sleep, visit the many
in 1893 as the home of
unique shops Oregon has
the Schiller Piano Facto offer, including Robin’z
tory.
Nest for a breakfast with
Enjoy lunch at
specialty chocolate chip
Conover Coffees &
pancakes and coffees.
Chocolates. Among the
How about a quaint
chocolate truffles and
boutique shopping
the meltaways, the nuts
experience? Visit Merlin’s
and the caramels, the
Greenhouse and Flowgourmet bridge mix and
ers and The Other Side
Oregon Soap Shoppe
the other familiar favorBoutique, where they
ites, groups will find one
always go out of their way
rare and extraordinary ingredient — the
to please a customer. Every season there is
store’s 100 percent pure chocolate passpecial, beautiful decor throughout, and
sion. Conover Coffees & Chocolates offers
the clothing and jewelry is amazing.
more than 70 different kinds of chocolate
Be sure to stop in Eagle’s Nest Gifts and
indulgences along with gourmet blends of
Gallery, which is a one-of-a-kind shopping
coffees, teas and smoothies.
experience. Items include handcrafted NaTravel a short distance to Oregon Soap
tive American jewelry, Minnetonka mocShoppe, where the chocolate goodies are
casins, artifacts and rustic furniture.
100 percent guilt free, 100 percent caloTravel 10 minutes west to White Pines
rie free and only mildly “habit forming.”
Inn, located in the White Pines Forest State
Choose from the many specialty soaps of
Park. Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch and
delicious chocolate varieties or any of the
view a live theater production (tickets need
other 150-plus blends to nurture the skin.
to be purchased in advance) in the rustic
Aside from the chocolate mint, chocolate
historic lodge. Chocolate lovers will delight
amber and milk chocolate almond soaps,
in the gift shop’s assorted chocolates,
the store carries chocolate-covered cherry
truffles and myrtles.
and chocolate mint lip balms. Relax and
Depart for home, or delay the diet
luxuriate with chocolate bath salts, or exfoanother day and extend the getaway with
liate with chocolate mint sugar scrubs.
more chocolate experiences, such as at
After a day of indulging in chocolate,
Baker Street in Dixon.S
Photo: Blackhawk Waterways CVB
Photo: Blackhawk Waterways CVB
Chocolate lovers discover delight
in Blackhawk Waterways
Bookmark this! For more group friendly itineraries, visit grouptour.com/itinerary.
18
Season
ILLINOIS
winds through southern Illinois
Photo: Courtesy Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau
In 1982, Guy Renzaglia, with 13 acres
and a dream, planted the first vineyard
in southern Illinois and launched what
has become a thriving wine producing
region. His Alto Vineyards & Winery
in Alto Pass, still family owned and
operated, is the oldest and largest in the
Shawnee Hills American Viticultural
Area, which favors vignoles, chambourcin, traminette, chardonnay and
cabernet franc grapes.
The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail links
a dozen wineries along a 40-mile route
through picturesque countryside
bordered by the Ohio and Mississippi
rivers and the Shawnee National Forest. The Ohio River Scenic Byway rolls
through the region. However, “pretty
much every route is a scenic drive,” said
Carol Hoffman, sales manager for the
Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau.
Kite Hill Vineyards, Carbondale,
While most wineries welcome
groups, Hoffman can direct tour operators to those that are best equipped
to accommodate motorcoaches. She
also helps with itineraries and dining
suggestions.
“Several of the wineries, like Rustle
Hill and Von Jakob, have restaurants on
site, so that’s probably the best option
for group meals,” she said.
Lodging is largely in cabins, small
motels and inns, but Hoffman can assist groups that want to overnight.
“We’re an eight-county area, so there’s
enough to see and do for a two- or threenight stay,” she said. “There are several
options for activities depending on the
group’s size, interests and activity level.”
She mentioned light hikes to see the
nature-carved sandstone known as Garden of the Gods and the towering rock
formations of Giant City State Park.
In the small town of Makanda,
groups can stroll to a handful of shops
along the boardwalk.
And if it’s autumn, don’t forget to try
cider and doughnuts at an orchard like
Rendleman’s, a family operation since
1873.
Groups also enjoy photo opportunities with the Superman statue and the
visit to the Super Museum in Metropolis, the “Hometown of Superman.”S
800-248-4373
shawneewinetrail.com
Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau
800-248-4373
southernmostillinois.com
Von Jakob Vineyard, Alto Pass, Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
Rustle Hill Winery, Cobden, Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
Nov • Dec • Jan
19
Photo: Visit Hendricks County
Itinerary/ INDIANA
Demonstration by Lisa Pelo,
Hot Blown Glass, Clayton
GO
Hendricks County
DO
Hot Blown Glass
317-987-6862
hotblownglass.com
Mudworks
317-834-2486
monroviamudworks.com
EAT
Mayberry Cafe
317-745-4067
mayberrycafe.com
Oasis Diner
317-837-7777
oasisdiner.com
Zydeco’s 5
317-834-3900
zydecos.net
SHOP
Beasley’s Orchard
317-745-4876
beasleys-orchard.com
ASK
Visit Hendricks County
800-321-9666
groups@visithendrickscounty.com
visithendrickscounty.com
Take Hendricks County’s
Hoosier culture and culinary tour
Hoosier hospitality remains at the
forefront of what makes visiting Indiana
so special, and there is no better display of
this warmth and affection than in Hendricks County.
Positioned just 10 miles and 15 minutes
west of Indianapolis and with two major
interstates, I-70 and I-74, winding through
its borders, the county boasts several group
friendly lodging options and restaurants.
With so much to see and do, the team at
Visit Hendricks County provides custom
itinerary planning with all-inclusive rates
for any size group.
“We are committed, active and vested
in the group travel market and have been
for years,” said Tracy Whetstone, Visit
Hendricks County’s groups manager. “Our
organization prides itself on its group tour
services with a personal, hands-on approach that includes customized itinerary
planning to welcoming guests with goody
bags. And with our centralized location,
various group-friendly options and the
recent resurgence of interest in central Indiana as a whole, we feel we have the kind
of destination that caters to any group tour
operator.”
Here is one of many options for an
overnight tour. Day trips or longer tours
also can be coordinated.
Day One
3 p.m. — Arrive at a Hendricks County
lodging facility.
4:30 p.m. — Depart for dinner.
5–6:30 p.m. — Cajun sensation: The
group will insist it stepped out of Indiana
and into New Orleans as it walks through
the doors of Zydeco’s 5 for a taste of the
bayou in Mooresville. A native of New
Orleans, chef Carter Hutchinson met his
future wife while she was there on spring
break and (thankfully) followed her back
to the Hoosier state. Guests will be reminded of Bourbon Street as they indulge in a
dinner filled with the authentic flavors and
Southern atmosphere.
6:45–8 p.m. — Play in the mud: Learn
about pottery techniques with artisan Jolee
Chartrand and discover some amazing
finds at Monrovia Mudworks. This small
studio and gallery is equipped with classroom space, so group members should be
prepared to get their hands dirty as they
create a small souvenir.
8:30 p.m. — Sleep sweet: Return to the
hotel to rest up before another exciting day.
Day Two
8:30–10 a.m. — Historic breakfast:
Experience breakfast at a true Indiana
landmark, the Oasis Diner. Learn how
this authentic 1954 diner was saved from
impending destruction, and moved and
incorporated into a revitalization of a historic downtown Main Street.
10:15–11:45 a.m. — Glass act: The
group will then head to Hot Blown Glass,
where regionally renowned Indiana artisan
Lisa Pelo will provide a 90-minute demonstration of the art of glass blowing in
her private workshop in Clayton. Rarely
do people see intricate discipline and
meticulous skill this close up. Take home a
memento from this visit.
12:15–1:30 p.m. — Welcome to Mayberry: Visit the iconic Mayberry Cafe, an Andy
Griffith Show-themed restaurant in Danville.
The buffet-style dinner will include Mayberry’s famous fried chicken with all the
fixings that is so good, the group will think
Aunt Bee made it. The restaurant features
non-stop episodes of the show, Mayberrythemed memorabilia and even Barney’s old
squad car sitting out front.
1:45–3 p.m. — Farm to market: Beasley’s Orchard will provide a tour of its expansive apple orchards and pumpkin patch
by wagon while sharing how a decades-old
family farm has become one of central
Indiana’s most visited fall attractions. After
the wagon tour, participants will have the
opportunity to sip on Beasley’s award-winning cider or enjoy a hand-dipped caramel
apple while exploring a Civil War-era barn
turned rustic market filled with local produce and other hidden gems.S
20
Season 2015 • GroupTour.com
Winter
INDIANA
Whether rain, sleet, snow or sweltering heat, shopping at French Lick
Resort is a comfortable treat.
Nestled in the rolling hills of French
Lick, the historic French Lick Resort
boasts more than a dozen shopping
venues within its two beautiful hotels.
The French Lick Springs Hotel was
established in 1845. Its neighboring
sister property, the West Baden Springs
Hotel, was opened in 1902, but was
almost lost to neglect when it was
closed to the public in 1989 for safety
reasons. As the once-magnificent West
Baden began crumbling into a forest
of decay, the Cook family — Bill, Gayle
and son Carl — stepped in to fund a
multi-million dollar renovation of both
properties. The French Lick restoration
was complete in 2006; the West Baden
project was finished in 2007.
Today, a trolley car provides a free
shuttle between the two hotels. The
Photo: Jackie Sheckler Finch
Shopping draws groups to French Lick Resort
French Lick Resort
French Lick Resort offers AAA-FourDiamond accommodations, top-notch
dining, championship golf courses,
world-class spas, swimming pools,
Vegas-style gaming, horseback riding
and group tour events.
“Guests appreciate the shopping op-
portunities throughout the resort with
retail outlets in both hotels, as well as
in our pro shops,” said Adina Cloud,
director of sales. “Designer jewelry,
name-brand apparel and regional offerings are just some of the options.”
Popular French Lick Resort shops include Chastain’s, which carries women’s
fashions and accessories; Signature
Shop, with all things Vera Bradley
and French Lick logo wear; Disinger
Jewelers, family-owned since 1932;
Landmarks Emporium, with its eclectic
mix of vintage-inspired items; Siebert’s
Shop for Men, featuring quality menswear from Ralph Lauren, Lacoste and
Woolrich; and Spring House Gifts,
offering specialty items crafted by local
and regional artists.S
French Lick Resort
888-936-9360
frenchlick.com
Nov • Dec • Jan
21
INDIANA
Take Huntington County’s Antique Trail
“We had so many questions about all
the antique shops that we have in Huntington County, so we thought, ‘Why
not make it easier for people to find the
shops and enjoy the drive?’ We created
the Antique Trail to suggest how to go
and where to find some of the treasures
Photo: Huntington County Visitor Bureau
When the Huntington County
Visitors & Convention Bureau started
getting calls about the Indiana destination’s affinity for antique shops,
tourism officials knew they were onto
something special. The result is the
Huntington County Antique Trail.
Roanoke Antique & Vintage Emporium, Roanoke
we have,” said Tina Bobilya, executive
director of the Huntington County
Visitors & Convention Bureau.
“We suggest that you start in Markle
at the largest antique store in the
county,” Bobilya said. “Markle Antiques
has more than 30,000 square feet of
antiques and you could easily spend a
half day shopping there.”
Shoppers are encouraged to take
their time as they journey through
main streets and scenic back roads.
Many of the shops are no more than 15
minutes apart.
“The trail spans several towns in our
county and would make a great one- or
two-day trip,” Bibilya said. “Roanoke is
one of those towns that has a lot of antique shops, so you might get distracted
there. We have some really high-quality
shops and you never know until you
get in them how much time you want
to spend there.”
Group tours and shoppers of all ages
IS GUARANTEED!
GAMING
RACING
DINING
ENTERTAINMENT
Host your next group at Hoosier Park Racing & Casino!
Call (800) 526-7223, Ext. 4616 or email Groups@HoosierPark.com
to book your next group today!
22
(800) 526-7223 • HoosierPark.com
Just minutes North of Indianapolis
off I-69 at Exit 226 in Anderson
Management reserves all rights. Must be 21 or older.
Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-9-WITH-IT.
INDIANA
Tour
SOUTHEAST INDIANA
Display of antiques, Roanoke Antique & Vintage Emporium, Roanoke
seem to enjoy the quest for gems large
and small, Bobilya said.
“My 12-year-old son Donovan likes
the Beatles so we made a day of looking
for Beatles memorabilia,” she said. “He
loves pop culture, and at the Paper Moon
in Roanoke, he found a Mr. Kool-Aid
pitcher that he really likes. Who knew I
would have a son who is an antiquer?”
One important tip that she always
shares with shoppers is to check store
hours before venturing forth on an
antique quest.
“Shops keep different hours and you
don’t want to get there and find them
closed,” she said. “But you can always
go on to the next place on our Antique
Trail.”S
Fall Mums
OR
Christmas Crumpets
Meet a friendly herd of
alpaca, tour a greenhouse,
visit an orchard and find
locally made specialty
foods and fresh produce
in the Fall.
Visit a Dickens Village display,
tour a Victorian mansion, enjoy
a 3-course tea, create a
fresh wreath or swag,
and shop for gifts
during the Holidays.
Huntington County
Visitors & Convention Bureau
800-848-4282
visithuntington.org
OHIO
Indianapolis
INDIANA
1
Cincinnati
KENTUCKY
Louisville
Lexington
South of I-74 & west of I-275, 20 minutes west of Cincinnati
www.TOURSoutheastIndiana.com
800-322-8198
Roanoke Antique & Vintage Emporium, Roanoke
Nov • Dec • Jan
23
INDIANA
RIVER
TOWNS
DOWN
TOWNS
Groups receive royal welcome
at Vera Bradley Outlet Sale
While waiting for a flight in
Atlanta, two Indiana women had a
brainstorm that changed their lives
and the way women travel. Noting
that women’s luggage was big, bulky
and masculine looking, Patricia Miller
and Barbara Baekgaard decided to do
something about that.
When they returned home, the two
women pooled their assets of $250
each and headed to the local fabric
store. They loaded up on material to
create what they envisioned as softsided bags in feminine patterns. And
Vera Bradley was born.
“We named our business after
Barb’s mother,” Miller once said.
“There aren’t many things that a
mother, a daughter and a grandmother all want to carry.”
That was back in 1982. Today, the
Get into the Spirit in
Historic Corydon &
Harrison County
WELCOME TO ECLECTIC SOUTHERN
INDIANA. From boutiques to antiques, from
fine French cuisine to burgers and barbecue
from urban wineries and fresh-drawn craft
beers... discover shopping, dining and more in
Southern Indiana. With downtown Louisville
just a bridge away, our region has so much to
offer. Don’t miss the eclectic charm of
Clark and Floyd Counties.
Treat your group to a hometown
holiday experience. Enjoy
unique dining, shopping,
and wineries at Indiana’s
First State Capital.
Contact Stacy at
stacyp@thisisIndiana.org
or at 888-738-2137
for an itinerary.
thisisindiana.org
With 37 lodging choices and
1600 rooms, it’s nothing but
sweet dreams. Book today!
Vera Bradley Outlet Sale, Fort Wayne
vibrant mixed-print quilted bags can
be seen around the world. And when
the annual Vera Bradley Outlet Sale
happens in the company’s Hoosier
headquarters in Fort Wayne, more
than 60,000 shoppers from across the
nation converge for the big event.
Held at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, the five-day shopping experience allows shoppers to
save up to 60 percent off retail prices
of handbags, luggage, stationery and
accessories.
The 2016 sale is scheduled for April
13–17.
Bus groups can purchase two-anda-half-hour time slots, which include
VIP entrance into the sale, exclusive
checkouts and a free gift, said Kristen
Guthrie, director of marketing for
Visit Fort Wayne.
“For the general public, the first
three days offer ticketed sessions.”
Guthrie said. “These ensure a controlled crowd size and the last two
days are general admission with more
markdowns, but larger lines. The
outlet sale loves group tours — loves
to make them feel special. They offer
groups special waiting rooms with
snacks and water, and a private entrance and checkout — no lines!”S
Visit Fort Wayne
800-767-7752
visitfortwayne.com
www.SunnySideOfLouisville.org
Contact Kate Kane • (812) 282-6654
kkane@SunnySideOfLouisville.org
24
Photo: Visit Fort Wayne
Explore
INDIANA
Derby Dinner
sets stage for fun
Photo: Derby Dinner Playhouse
Professional productions of Broadway musicals and lighthearted comedies, in addition to classic American
cuisine, draw groups to Derby Dinner
Playhouse in Clarksville.
Derby Dinner, which opened in 1974,
puts on eight main-stage shows that run
Tuesday through Sunday year-round.
Church Basement Ladies in the Last
Potluck Supper just wrapped up its run.
Derby Dinner Playhouse production, Clarksville
On the schedule are Irving Berlin’s
White Christmas, Nov. 10–Dec. 31, 2015;
Jack Frost Saves Christmas, Nov. 14–Dec.
21, 2015; Charlotte’s Web, Feb. 27–April
2, 2016; Legally Blonde The Musical,
April 6–May 15, 2016; and Pinkalicious
the Musical, May 21–June 25, 2016.
Groups often pair Derby Dinner with
a tour of Schimpff ’s Confectionery and
museum in nearby Jeffersonville.
“Derby Dinner Playhouse and
Schimpff ’s are two of our staples when
it comes to group tours,” said Luanne
Mattson, director of communications
for Clark-Floyd Counties ConventionTourism Bureau. “They’re so group
friendly and so accessible to groups.”S
Clark-Floyd Counties Convention and
Tourism Bureau
812-282-6654
sunnysideoflouisville.org
Derby Dinner Playhouse
877-898-8577
derbydinner.com
The $230, 3-DAY, 2-NIGHT SHIPSHEWANA FLEA MARKET package
guarantees fun browsing the Midwest’s largest flea market, joining an Amish
quilting bee, dining in an Amish home, touring Quilt Gardens, and more!
The Shipshewana Flea Market, the Midwest’s largest, features:
• Easy access, free bus parking and free admission
• ABA Top 100 Event open Tuesday’s & Wednesday’s, May thru October
• Restaurant vouchers and food carry outs
• Farmstead Inn conveniently located across the street from the Flea Market
OTHER TOP STOPS: AMISH ACRES HISTORIC FARM & HERITAGE
RESORT features tours, live theatre, family-style Threshers Dinner, lodging,
quaint shops, ABA Top 100 Event Arts & Crafts Festival and free bus parking.
Family-owned DAS DUTCHMAN ESSENHAUS’ 1,100 seat Amish-style
restaurant and home-style bakery feature 30 varieties of pie. Their Inn, shops,
classic car cruise-in, Quilt Garden & Mural create a quiet country escape.
The QUILT GARDENS ALONG THE HERITAGE TRAIL
... an ABA Top 100 Event seven years in a row!
19 eye-popping quilt patterned
gardens (over 1,000,000 blooms!)
and 21 gigantic hand-painted
quilt art murals blanket seven
Amish Country communities.
VIEWABLE FREE OF CHARGE
ANNUALLY MAY 30 - OCTOBER 1!
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COMING OCTOBER 2013!!
Visit AmishCountryTours.org for more information on these
group friendly attractions or call Sonya at 800.517.9657.
Visit AmishCountryTours.org
for more information on these group friendly
attractions or call Sonya at 800.517.9657.
Nov • Dec • Jan
25
Itinerary/ IOWA
Photo: Iowa Tourism Office
Southeast Iowa offers
history and relaxation
Old Fort Madison, Madison
GO
Bentonsport, Bonaparte,
Burlington, Cantril,
Fairfield, Fort Madison,
Milton and Mount Pleasant
DO
Villages Folk School
319-288-0047
villagesfolkschool.com
EAT
Bonaparte Retreat
319-592-3339
bonaparteretreat.com
Butch’s River Rock Cafe
319-986-6865
SEE
ICON Gallery
641-469-6252
icon-art.org
Old Fort Madison
319-372-6318
fortmadison-ia.com
Midwest Old Threshers
Heritage Museums
319-385-8937
oldthreshers.com
Sheaffer Pen Museum
319-372-1674
sheafferpenmuseum.org
The Raj
641-472-9580
theraj.com
ASK
Iowa Tourism Office
traveliowa.com
26
Winter
In southeast Iowa, group tours encounter the beauty of meandering streams,
the mighty Mississippi River, rolling hills,
patchwork countrysides and quaint villages.
The Iowa Tourism Office supplied this
sample itinerary.
Day One
5 p.m. — Check in at Catfish Bend Inn
& Spa in Burlington.
6:30 p.m. — Depart for a Burlington
Bees minor league baseball game and dinner. The Bees are the Single-A affiliate of
the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.
Day Two
8 a.m. — Breakfast is at McConnell
Cafe.
9 a.m. — View Snake Alley, which Ripley’s Believe It or Not called the “crookedest” street in the world.
9:15 a.m. — Visit Fun City, a family
entertainment facility with bowling, an
indoor/outdoor waterpark and go-karts.
11:15 a.m. — Tour the Midwest Old
Threshers Heritage Museums in Mount
Pleasant and step back into agricultural
history with displays of traction steam
engines, antique tractors and agricultural
implements.
12:15 p.m. — Eat lunch at Butch’s River
Rock Cafe near Mount Pleasant.
1:45 p.m. — Tour the town square in
Fairfield and ICON Gallery, which presents
high-end fine art.
4:15 p.m. — Check in at The Raj, the
only Ayurveda facility outside of India,
specifically designed and built to offer the
traditional Ayurveda rejuvenation treatments.
6:30 p.m. — After dinner at The Raj,
learn about the health spa and its treatments.
Day Three
8:15 a.m. — Breakfast is at Cafe Paradiso in Fairfield.
9 a.m. — Tour the Maharishi University
of Management in Fairfield. Founded more
than 40 years ago on the unique approach
of consciousness-based education, all students and faculty practice Transcendental
Meditation.
10 a.m. — Visit Milton Creamery in
Milton, where milk from small Amish
dairy farmers is made into fine cheese.
Noon — Shop at Dutchman’s Store in
Cantril. This old-fashioned general store
run by local Mennonites carries bulk foods,
local produce, kitchenwares, books and
gifts.
1:15 p.m. — Enjoy lunch at Bonaparte
Retreat, located in a former grist mill in
Bonaparte.
2:30 p.m. — Visit Villages Folk School
in Bentonsport, which offers classes in pottery, painting, quilting, drawing, spinning,
weaving and gardening.
4:30 p.m. — At Harvestville Farm in
Donnellson, shop for produce and plants.
5:35 p.m. — Check in at the Kingsley
Inn in Fort Madison.
6:30 p.m. — Dinner is at Lost Duck
Brewing in Fort Madison.
Day Four
8 a.m. — Eat breakfast at Ivy Bake
Shoppe in Fort Madison.
9 a.m. — Tour the Sheaffer Pen Museum. The museum preserves the pens,
artifacts and memories of the Sheaffer Pen
Company, established in 1913 by Walter
A. Sheaffer after securing the patent for a
self-filling fountain pen. The Fort Madison
factory closed in 2008.
10 a.m. — Tour Old Fort Madison and
the Santa Fe Depot Museum Complex in
Fort Madison. At Old Fort Madison, discover what life was like at a United States
fur trading post on the rugged frontier of
the Missouri Territory. The 1910 former
railroad depot is the home of the North
Lee County Historical Society.
11:30 a.m. — Eat lunch at the Drake
Restaurant on the Mississippi River in
Burlington.S
IOWA
They may be the most recognizable
couple in the world of art, but the man
and woman painted by Grant Wood
never posed together, and did not live
in the tidy Iowa farmhouse immortalized in the artist’s American Gothic.
Wood selected his sister Nan and
dentist Byron McKeeby to portray the
dour woman and pitchfork-wielding
man in his 1930 painting, which is explained and celebrated at the American
Gothic House Center in Eldon.
The original 1881 house still stands
in the rural area about two hours
southeast of Des Moines. It’s flanked
by a modern, accessible structure
that is open year-round and houses
permanent displays about Wood, an
Iowa native, and two short films about
the artist and his work. A permanent
exhibit showcases 60 years of American
Gothic parodies; the center also hosts
changing exhibitions.
A highlight for visitors is the op-
Photo: American Gothic House Center
presents scene of famous painting
Visitors re-create American Gothic,
American Gothic House Center, Eldon
portunity to don costumes for a photo
in front of the iconic cottage. Groups
may reserve a free, docent-led tour of
the center, which begins with a step-on
greeting, said Holly Berg, American
Gothic House Center administrator.
“We give a little history about the
painting to get them started, and then
we show our documentary about Grant
Wood,” she said.
Depending on the groups’ interests,
tours can focus on art, history or the
native prairie garden.
While the famous house is open only
occasionally to the public, groups of 25
or more can arrange for a private tour of
its first floor (accessibility is limited).
“Tour organizers are always looking
for a ‘wow’ factor — something they
can offer that’s not available to individuals,” Berg said. “We’re happy to be
able to give them that.”
Groups should plan to spend 60
to 90 minutes at the American Gothic
House Center, which has ample motorcoach parking. Admission and tours
are free, but donations are welcome.S
641-652-3352
theamericangothichouse@gmail.com
americangothichouse.net
Who’d have thought a 15-minute
tractor-cart ride could be a viable
time machine? It’s how it all begins
at Urbandale’s Living History Farms,
welcoming visitors with a bit of time
travel of sorts.
This 500-acre, open-air museum
invites visitors to witness history in
true 3-D fashion as they see, hear and
touch Iowa’s agricultural story — traveling back in time 300 years.
Tours begin with the tractor-cart
ride. An orientation video provides an
overview, and each person receives a
brochure and interactive map, designed
to work with smart phones.
Most visitors take three to six hours
for the self-guided tours.
The 1700 Ioway Indian Farm is the
first stop, showing what it was like to
farm with very rudimentary tools.
The 1850 Pioneer Farm features a
Photo: Living History Farms
Step back in time at Living History Farms
Living History Farms, Urbandale
log cabin, log barn, and heritage breeds
of pigs and sheep, as well as oxen.
The 1900 Horse-Powered Farm
reveals itself after a brief walk through
a wooded path.
The tractor-cart appears again to
take travelers to Walnut Hill, a town
set in 1875. The town features an
operating general store, a blacksmith, a
broom maker and a print shop.
Every site, except the Ioway Farm,
features living history interpreters
dressed in clothing of their respective
time period.
“One of the favorite things universally with visitors is interacting with
our interpreters, who dress in period
clothing and really immerse in their
character,” said Judy Downs, manager
of events and sales.
She noted, it’s easy to forget where
you are, being so close to Des Moines,
yet surrounded by history.
Reservations for group tours
are recommended; schedule at least
two weeks in advance. Group rates
are available. Free, paved parking is
provided.S
Living History Farms
515-278-5286
livinghistoryfarms.org
Nov • Dec • Jan
27
Itinerary/ MICHIGAN
Photo: Sara Simmons
Say ‘Welkom’ to Holland
DeZwaan Windmill,
Windmill Island Gardens, Holland
GO
Holland and Saugatuck
DO
Holland Princess
616-393-7799
hollandprincess.com
Saugatuck Dune Rides
269-857-2253
saugatuckduneride.com
EAT
Boatwerks
616-396-0600
boatwerksrestaurant.com
SEE
Holland Museum
616-796-3329
hollandmuseum.org
Nelis’ Dutch Village
616-396-1475
dutchvillage.com
Veldheer Tulip Gardens
616-399-1900
veldheer.com
Windmill Island Gardens
616-355-1030
windmillisland.org
ASK
Holland Visitors Bureau
800-506-1299
holland.org
Holland welcomes groups to its ongoing celebration of Dutch culture, Midwest
friendliness and world-renowned festivals
and attractions.
Group travelers can experience everything from classic architecture and cuisine
to contemporary art and entertainment.
Spring means the Tulip Time festival,
whirling windmills and klompen dancers.
In summer, take in everything from
concerts in the parks to weekly street performers.
Autumn brings a harvest of orchards,
fall color and the abundant Farmer’s
Market.
And in winter, enjoy Dutch WinterFest
on the heated sidewalks of the award-winning downtown.
Wendy Link, director of sales at the
Holland Visitors Bureau, shared this threeday sample itinerary.
Day One
The “welkom” to Holland includes a
visit to Nelis’ Dutch Village to experience
the Netherlands of the 1800s. The group
will tour 10 acres of authentic Dutch
architecture, canals and gardens. Enjoy
the klompen dancers as they twirl to the
music of the Amsterdam street organ; take
in wooden shoe and candle carving, Dutch
crafts and artwork. Delight in a traditional
Dutch lunch and then shop in the village’s
specialty shops.
Afterward, check in to one of Holland’s
fine hotels and rest up for an evening
aboard the Holland Princess. Cruise on
this Victorian-style paddle-wheeler and,
weather permitting, venture out into Lake
Michigan.
Day Two
A Dutch-costumed step-on guide will
board the coach for a fun-filled tour first
thing in the morning.
End up at Windmill Island Gardens, with
its 36 acres of manicured gardens, dikes and
canals. Tour five floors of DeZwaan, the only
authentic Dutch windmill operating in the
U.S., where the group will learn about the
grain-grinding process and see the giant
wind-driven gears. Complete the tour of the
island with a Klompen dance performance
and a walk through the little Netherlands
Museum. Be sure to sample the fudge, made
fresh daily, on the way out.
Lunch will be on your own in awardwinning downtown Holland. In addition to
many fine eateries, downtown features over
100 unique shops and galleries, tree-lined
sidewalks and beautiful bronze sculptures.
After lunch and shopping, enjoy a
guided tour of the Holland Museum to
get acquainted with Holland’s rich history.
There are a variety of exhibits, including
the Dutch Galleries featuring 17th-, 18th-,
and 19th-century art and furniture from a
private collection.
There’s no better way to complete the
day than with a sumptuous waterfront dinner at Boatwerks Restaurant on the shores
of Lake Macatawa.
If time permits, include a short drive
to Holland State Park to watch the sun set
over Lake Michigan.
Day Three
The final day begins with a visit to Veldheer Tulip Gardens with over 5 million tulips in the spring, and beautiful perennials
in summer and fall. Some may even take a
little of Holland home with them — bulbs
are available beginning in August (and can
be ordered in spring or summer).
Next door, at DeKlomp Wooden Shoe
& Delft Factory, talk with the artists who
mold, hand paint and glaze the only authentic blue and white delftware made in
the U.S., and watch wooden shoe carving
on machines imported from the Netherlands.
Lastly, enjoy a thrilling ride on the
dune schooners of Saugatuck Dune Rides,
15 minutes south of Holland. Explore
the incredible Lake Michigan sand dunes
and depart for home with memories of a
quaint Dutch community located along the
picturesque shores of Lake Michigan.S
28
Winter
The Felt Estate
West Michigan offers:
~adjacent to the Saugatuck Dunes State Park~
Immerse
yourself
in the
beauty...
Tour the Felt Mansion for a journey
Back to the Roaring 20’s...
Windmill
Island
Gardens
Call 616.335.8982 to arrange a private group tour
www.feltmansion.org P.O. Box 675 • Saugatuck, MI 49453
• Lighthouses
• Dune Rides along Lake Michigan
• Dutch Heritage
• Dinner Boat Cruises
• Tulip Festival
• Presidential Museum
• World-Class Garden & Sculpture Park
• New Cabela’s store in Grandville
• And many more hidden treasures! More than
3
“Best of the Best”
Hotels
HOLLAND
12381 Felch Street
Quality Excellence
Award Winning
Come experience our:
• Authentic Dutch Windmill • Antique Dutch Carousel
• Amsterdam Street Organ • Delightful Dutch Shopping
• Tropical Conservatory • Farm Animals
• And Much More!
tulips!
HOLLAND
12427 Felch Street
2013
Circle of Excellence
Winner!
GRANDVILLE
4651 36th Street
Quality Excellence
Award Winning
All Properties Feature Interior Corridors & Elevators
and FREE Hot Deluxe Breakfast
One Call Does It All!
Contact Lori Varner at
616-482-0062
www.SuburbanInns.com
LVarner@SuburbanInns.com
CELE BR ATE M I L L I O N S O F TU LIPS!
M AY 7 - 1 4
HOLLAND, MI
For more information about events,
group discounts & itinerary planning, contact us
www.tuliptime.com or 800-822-2770
Nov • Dec • Jan
29
MICHIGAN
ONE NATION. THIRTY EXPERIENCES.
OCT. 18, 2015 – JAN. 18, 2016
BOOK YOUR GROUP TODAY!
• Discounted Rates for
Groups of 15 or More
There is always something new and
fun happening at the Detroit Zoo.
Throughout the year the zoo provides groups with educational opportunities, animal interactions and new
exhibits.
Wondering what season is best to
visit the zoo?
“It’s a great time to come to the zoo
anytime,” said Jennie Miller, the zoo’s
communications manager.
In the summer the Cotton Family
Wolf Wilderness opened and became
the home for two grey wolves, Wazi
and Kaska. The 2-acre exhibit offers the
wolves a habitat of grassy hills, native
trees and a river. At the exhibit visitors
can come nose to snout with the wolves
at the expansive glass viewing windows.
Next year the 33,000-square-foot
Polk Penguin Conservation Center will
open and will be the “largest of its kind
in the world,” Miller said.
A unique feature of the Polk Penguin Conservation Center will be the
penguin deep dive. Visitors will be able
to watch the dive from both above and
below the water as the penguins dive
and swim through the 326,000-gallon
tank with a 25-foot deep dive area. After
the penguins move to their new home,
the old penguin exhibit will be converted into a bat conservation center.
Photo: Roy Lewis
Any time is a good time
to visit Detroit Zoo
Drill and gorilla, Detroit Zoo
At a number of immersion habitats,
guests can have up close and personal
encounters with animals. The Australian Outback removes the viewing
glass and instead allows guests to walk
through the outback among red kangaroos and wallabies. A Butterfly Garden,
which is kept at a toasty 75 degrees, is
a great place to visit during the winter
months. Guests can even feed a giraffe
at the zoo.
To take the visit to the zoo up a
notch, arrangements can be made for
groups to enjoy a catered meal and
enjoy a special animal interaction.S
Detroit Zoo
248-541-5717, ext. 3300
detroitzoo.org/group-information
• Dedicated Group Entrance
• Dining Opportunities
This exhibition has been organized by the Rubell Family
Collection, Miami. Image: Soundsuit, Nick Cave, 2008,
fabric, fiberglass and metal. Courtesy of Rubell Family
Collection, Miami
30
Photo: Donna Terek
E-mail GroupRequest@dia.org,
visit dia.org or call 313.833.1292
Polar bear, Arctic Ring of Life, Detroit Zoo
DISCOVER DETROIT’S AMAZING LITTLE HOUSE
OF MUSICAL INFLUENCE AND MORE AT EVERY TURN.
Detroit’s influence stands as strong as the sounds of the Motown Museum, which preserves the
birthplace of a musical legacy that moved the world, and there are many more stories throughout The D.
History and its makers are showcased at The Henry Ford. Culture and contributions are celebrated at
the Arab American National Museum. From the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History
to Greektown, Mexicantown and Corktown, you’ll find worldwide wonders waiting around every corner.
Discover Detroit, America’s great comeback city. View Allen’s whole story at meetdetroit.com/allen.
ALLEN RAWLS
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
MOTOWN MUSEUM
GroupTours_PPCC_4.75x2.25_Final.pdf 1 9/15/2015 4:08:33 PM
AMERICA’S GREAT COMEBACK CITY.
Polk Penguin
Conservation Center
Opening Spring of 2016
Plan your visit to the Detroit Zoo!
For group rates and reservations, contact
Jenise Collins, Group Sales Manager,
at (248) 336-5841 or
jcollins@dzs.org.
TIMELESS STORIES BROUGHT TO LIFE
There’s a reason
the word “great” is
part of our name.
Michigan’s largest outlet center offers
group leaders a complimentary meal plus
a lounge and free meal for the motor
coach driver of preregistered groups.
Book your group and each person will
receive a shopping bag and a Passport
to Shopping for special savings at more
than 100 stores and restaurants.
greatlakescrossingoutlets.com
Click “Visitors Center” to register
your group today.
FEBRUARY 9-14 • Fisher Theatre
FEB.16-28 • DETROIT OPERA HOUSE
MarCH 9-20 • Fisher Theatre
FOR GROUP TICKETS AND INFO CONTACT • groups@broadwayindetroit.com or 313-871-1132
I-75 and Baldwin Road, Exit 84
Auburn Hills, MI
Great location...
Excellent service...
Thousands of
delighted guests.
Proudly serving the
Group Tour market in
Detroit for over 25 years.
3000 Enterprise Dr., Allen Park, MI 48101 • 1.800.342.5802 • 313.271.1600 p/f
www.bestwesterngreenfield.com
Each Best Western hotel is independently owned and operated.
Nov • Dec • Jan
31
MICHIGAN
Michigan’s Heritage Park at Hilt’s
Landing in Whitehall is the newest
addition to the collection of houses
and cultural history exhibits overseen
by Muskegon-based West Michigan’s
Lakeshore Museum Center. Open since
June 6, 2015, the park is winding down
on a successful first season.
Well received by students, families,
history buffs and lifelong learners, Michigan’s Heritage Park has been designed
to bring visitors through 10,000 years
of Michigan history. Park patrons can
expect a hands-on history lesson as they
travel along a half-mile trail starting and
ending at the visitor center.
“We offer a very different experience than what people have typically
done on a group tour,” explained Joni
Dorsett, Lakeshore Museum Center
communications director. As guests
follow the trail they stop at six key
attractions arranged in chronological
Photo: Julie Henning
Park uses hands-on activities to tell state’s story
Settler’s Cabin, Michigan Heritage Park
at Hilt’s Landing, Whitehall
order: a wigwam village, fur trade post,
1830’s settler’s cabin, Civil War camp,
logging shanty and 1900s farm house.
Unlike traditional museums, touching historical artifacts is both permitted and encouraged. Visitors may find
themselves weaving bark, counting beaver pelts, dipping wax candles, playing
GroupToursMatch.com
Find attractions they’ll love. Find the perfect, custom itinerary.
Find Muskegon, Michigan.
Meet your Tour Specialist 1-800-250-9283 | visitmuskegon.org
TOURS 877-975-3171
NARRATED TRAM TOURS/
GROUP RATES/CAFÉ/GIFT SHOP/
FREE MOTORCOACH PARKING
MeijerGardens.org, 888-957-1580
I-96 and East Beltline, Grand Rapids, MI
32
checkers or grinding coffee by hand.
“Park staff act as interpretive guides
and are stationed at sops along the
trail. Some are dressed in period costumes and some aren’t,” Dorset added.
“There’s always an interpretive element
to the experience and that’s varied
based on staff schedules and what skills
each person has to offer.”
“We’re currently planning a variety
of themed events for the 2016 season,”
Dorsett said. Currently on the calendar
are a Civil War Event in June, a Native
American Pow Wow in June, Harvest
Days in September and a Haunted Trail
in October. Look for dates and event
details on the park website.
While prepared food is not available
at Michigan’s Heritage Park, groups
are welcome to bring in picnics or box
lunches.
Dorsett reminds visitors to dress for
the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes, as much of the experience
is outdoors. She recommends a minimum of 1 ½ to 2 hours for an unhurried experience, adding another hour
for groups interested in eating and/or
browsing for souvenirs in the gift shop.
Complimentary admission is offered to both the driver and one group
leader or tour guide. Reservations
are appreciated at least two weeks in
advance. Full payment is required one
week before the scheduled visit.
While passengers may be dropped
off and picked up directly in front of
the visitor center, motorcoaches must
park in the overflow lot located directly
across North Durham Road. Visitors with limited mobility can expect
improvements to the crushed asphalt
trail in 2016. ADA accessible ramps allow guests to experience all of the stops
along the woodland trail.
The park is open seasonally from
May through October.S
Michigan’s Heritage Park at Hilt’s Landing
231-722-0278
lakeshoremuseum.org/project/
michigan-heritage-park/
MICHIGAN
Groups blossom at
!
t
n
c
e
S
l
y
n
e
v
Hea
S.S. Badger offers
steamship experience
Photo: S.S. Badger
In scenic southeast Michigan...
Lounge, S.S. Badger
The trip between Michigan and
Wisconsin doesn’t have to be one of
endless traffic snarls and traffic jams.
Instead, the journey can be one with
fun, games and stunning views as
passengers board the S.S. Badger, an
authentic steamship, for a four-hour
cruise across Lake Michigan.
The Badger gives guests an opportunity to step back and enjoy a time when
the journey was just as important as
the destination.
The Badger began service in 1953
and was considered “Queen of the
Lakes” during the golden era of car
ferries on the Great Lakes. As time went
on, transportation needs changed and
ferries started ending up in scrap yards,
but with luck and a bit of perseverance the S. S. Badger held on and is
now listed on the National Register of
Historic Places.
The ship ferries passengers and
vehicles, including buses, between
Ludington, Michigan, and Manitowoc,
Wisconsin.
Groups are offered “VIP boarding and
are escorted on the ship, given a welcome and a brief overview of the ship’s
amenities,” said Terri Brown, director of
marketing and media relations.
There isn’t a shortage of things to do
aboard the Badger. There are hosted
games, free movies, satellite television,
a gift shop and, of course, walking
around the spacious outside decks and
enjoying the view.
Brown said the most-received comments from guests is that “time went
by much quicker than they thought it
would” and that “they are surprised by
the number of amenities available.”
There are two options for food on
board the ship. Guests can select from a
buffet restaurant or the deli-style snack
bar. There is also full cocktail service at
the two bars.
Upon arrival and departure, groups
are escorted on and off the bus, while
it is still on the Badger, for expedient
boarding and embarking.S
S.S. Badger
800-841-4243
ssbadger.com
Tour delightful vistas of flora at Heavenly
Scent Herb Farm. Priced itineraries &
hotel packages at lccvb.org/motorcoach.
Free planning & booking
assistance provided by LCCVB.
800.686.8474
lccvb.org
Who says a prison
tour can’t be fun?
THE ORIGINAL JACKSON HISTORIC
PRISON TOURS PRESENTS FROM
HISTORIC PRISON TO ARTISTIC VISION:
CRIME, CREEPS & CREATIVE CANVAS
Lively, interactive stories of bygone prisoners,
guards, and wardens come alive with tales of
corruption, mayhem, punishments and reforms.
Learn more at HistoricPrisonTours.com
or by calling (517) 817-8960
exper ence
EXPERIENCEJACKSON.COM
Nov • Dec • Jan
33
MICHIGAN
The Lake Michigan port city of Manistee is home to one of the state’s greatest collections of Victorian buildings.
Step-on guide Phyllis Hanna, who
works wearing the gown, hat and
gloves of a Victorian lady, said Manistee’s entire central business district is on
the National Register of Historic Places.
Northern Michigan forests supplied
timber to America after the Civil War,
and Manistee’s natural harbor was one
of the busiest ports on Lake Michigan.
The lumber barons who lived in
Manistee used their wealth to construct
grand commercial buildings, homes
and churches.
Manistee once contained more millionaires per capita than anywhere in
the United States.
A walking or driving tour takes
groups past solid buildings largely built
after a devastating 1871 fire, including the Manistee County Historical
Museum in the A.H. Lyman Company,
the Aarons Building, and the Winkler
and Barry Block.
River Street boasts varied shops, galleries and boutiques.
The Manistee Riverwalk, along the
Manistee River, stretches 1.75 miles
from the First Street Beach at Lake
Michigan to Memorial Bridge and
provides easy access to the shops on
River Street.
“The river traffic is interesting,”
Hanna said. “There’s a lot of action on
the river.”
Group tours and a program can
be arranged at the Ramsdell Theatre,
where lumber barons had their own
entrance and where actor James Earl
Jones began his professional career.
Tours also can be arranged of First
Congregational United Church of
Christ, designed by William LeBaron
A grand group destination
Enjoy the history and unique ambiance of Grand Hotel. Stay overnight and
enjoy a full breakfast and five-course dinner daily or visit for the day and
experience our legendary Grand Luncheon Buffet.
For details contact Julia Luckey at 517-349-4600
or email grouptours@grandhotel.com.
1-800-33GRA ND • gr a ndho tel.co m
34
First Congregational United Church of Christ,
Manistee
Jenney, the Chicago architect known
as the father of the skyscraper. The
Romanesque church includes two
stained-glass windows from the studio
of Louis Comfort Tiffany.
In the warm-weather months, trolley tours of the city are available.
Manistee County Visitors Bureau has
developed tour routes for the historic
district, west homes, east homes and
historic sites throughout the county.
Little River Casino in Manistee
is owned by the Little River Band of
Ottawa Indians and offers a 292-room
luxury hotel, a 1,600-seat event center
and an expanding collection of slots
and table games.S
Manistee County Visitors Bureau
877-626-4783
visitmanisteecounty.com
Manistee delivers Victorian charm and history
MICHIGAN
Vibrant with cafes, breweries, restaurants and food vendors, Grand Rapids
has an unexpectedly hot food scene to
complement its artsy culture.
Downtown offers establishments
serving tapas, coffees, fine wine, craft
brews and just-picked produce from
nearby orchards. Restaurant menus are
influenced by top-rated culinary school
Downtown Market, Grand Rapids
Secchia Institute for Culinary Education at Grand Rapids Community Colcrafters converge to sell their wares.
lege, from which many graduates have
Tour company Live Eventfully brings
gone on to cook in the city.
groups through the market to check
“We have a food scene larger than
out the seafood vendor, sweet shops,
you would expect for a city our size,”
baker and ice cream peddler.
said Janet Korn, senior vice president
Toasting the town also is a must.
of Experience Grand Rapids, the local
Grand Rapids was named Beer City
CVB. “Because we have such an amazUSA in 2012 and 2013. Live Eventfully
ing growing season, we have the opporoffers a Craft Beer Tour, including three
tunity to have the freshest food.”
to four microbreweries. A Hop Farm to
Downtown Market is the perfect
Tap Tour takes groups through one of
venue to sample flavors. It opened in
Michigan’s9/9/15
largest hop
2013
as a place where culinarians and
LVH-GLGT-Nov-2015.qxp:LVH-GLGT-Summer08.qxp
8:24farms.
AM Page 1
May 6 ~ June 2
June 3 ~ June 26
August 31 ~ October 27
Photo: Experience Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids offers grand places to dine
The Grand Rapids Food Trail, assembled by Experience Grand Rapids,
is a self-guided tour that includes
the Downtown Market; Ferris Coffee
and Nut Company, where groups can
participate in a 60–90 minute roasting
experience; The Local Epicurean, where
cooking classes include pasta-making,
chocolate-truffles, lobster and pasta,
and organic infused butter making.
The Taste of the Gardens Café at
Frederik Meijer Garden and Sculpture
Park serves seasonal dishes under its
glass ceiling sculpture by renowned
artist Dale Chihuly.S
Experience Grand Rapids
800-678-9859
experiencegr.com
Live Eventfully
616-648-5942
liveeventfullyllc.com
Lake View Hotel will
greet you at the dock, and
provide luggage transfer
to/from the hotel, a lobby
welcome reception, free
morning coffee, and wi-fi
with computer access.
June 27 ~ August 30
INSPIRED ADVENTURES BEGIN
ON MACKINAC ISLAND.
Looking for a tour destination where adventurous, historic attractions abound in a gorgeous,
natural setting? Then bring your groups to Mackinac Island’s Lake View Hotel. From our
ideal downtown location, we offer eighty-five newly upgraded guest rooms with premium
bedding and 32” flat panel TVs, two restaurants and lounges, a wine cellar, and an indoor
heated swimming pool. On arrival, we’ll meet your group at the ferry dock, and ensure
every detail is coordinated to your exact requirements.
Rates start from just $49.50* per person including our
delicious continental breakfast. Call us toll free today
and schedule your group’s adventure!
(888) 645-4522
www.lake-view-hotel.com
groupsales@lakeviewhotel.us
Lake View Hotel is a proud member of:
ALL ROOMS AIR-CONDITIONED
Packaging available!
* Group rates are per person, double occupancy Sunday~Thursday, subject to availability, based on groups of
10 rooms or more. Rates include deluxe accommodations and continental breakfast. Rates not available on
Holidays and Special Event dates. Lilac Parade Weekend (June 10-12) rates from $90.00 double occupancy.
Baggage charge of $5.00 per person round trip is additional. Add 6% Michigan Sales Tax, 8% Hotel Service
Charge, and 2% Tourism Assessment Charge. Complimentary room for escort with 15 paid rooms.
We Love Groups!
Since 1858
7452 Main Street
Mackinac Island, Michigan 49757
Nov • Dec • Jan
35
MICHIGAN
Booking an afternoon cruise with
Star of Saugatuck Boat Cruises can
be the perfect companion to a morning of shopping and exploring in the
vibrant west Michigan communities of
Saugatuck and Douglas.
The Star of Saugatuck II is a 150-passenger sternwheeler with an enclosed
lower deck and an open upper deck
with a partial canopy.
Cruises last about 90 minutes,
depending on weather conditions. As
they glide on the Kalamazoo River,
passengers see views of homes and
businesses in Saugatuck and Douglas
from the river, the river’s wildlife and
sand dunes.
The cruise enters Lake Michigan if
lake conditions permit.
Live narration presents local lore and
the area’s rich maritime history.
Star of Saugatuck II passes historic
Singapore, a lumbering town buried
See the other side of Saugatuck
Star of Saugatuck II cruise, Kalamazoo River
under Lake Michigan’s ever-moving
sand dunes.
“Our cruise is a time to sit back, relax
and enjoy the beauty and serenity of
the area — to enjoy the company of
old and new friends you meet along the
way,” said Marilyn Starring, manager.
A snack bar sells chips, candy, sodas
and alcoholic beverages.
The 80-foot-long Star of Saugatuck
II has 18-foot paddlewheels and was
constructed in Saugatuck.
Cruises begin in early May and continue into October.
Advanced phone reservations are
taken for groups of 20-plus and for
private charters. Star of Saugatuck Boat
Cruises offers a group the opportunity
to purchase a box lunch with prior
reservations Monday through Saturday.
Groups are served their lunches and
beverages on the lower deck.
Groups should be at the dock 15–20
minutes prior to scheduled departure
time.
The dock is located in downtown
Saugatuck at the corner of Water and
Spear streets. Motorcoaches may park
in the company’s driveway while onboard for the duration of the cruise.S
Star of Saugatuck Boat Cruises
269-857-4261
saugatuckboatcruises.com
GROUP
THERAPY
UPlift
your spirits
in the land
of Hiawatha
Michigan’s
Upper Peninsula
UPtravel.com
800-562-7134
Contact
Fred Huffman
groups@uptravel.com
Upper Tahquamenon Falls
36
SAULT STE. MARIE
Where Michigan was Born!
Kewadin Casino
800-539-2346 www.kewadin.com
With 730 slot machines, 20 gaming tables,
and 39,000 sq. ft. of gaming space, Kewadin
is Vegas-style entertainment! Throw in great
eateries, world class shows, and a beautiful
hotel with many amenities and you’ve got
the perfect “Up North” getaway.
Great Lakes
Shipwreck Museum
906-635-1742 www.shipwreckmuseum.com
On the
he shore of the Shipwreck Coast this world-class museum
houses dramatic exhibits, including the ship’s bell of the Edmund
Fitzgerald. Tour the Whitefish Point Lighthouse and much more!
3826 I-75 Bus. Spur
906-632-8882
Askwith's
Lockview Motel
327 W. Portage Ave.
800-854-0745
Best Western
Sault Ste. Marie
4335 I-75 Bus. Spur
800-297-2858
Budget Host
Crestview Inn
1200 Ashmun St.
800-955-5213
Comfort Inn
Tahquamenon Falls
906-492-3415
This State Park features
multiple waterfalls, including the magnificent 50-foot
drop of the Upper Falls and
the meandering series that
make up the Lower Falls.
Hiking trails, lookout
points, row boat rental
Visitors to “the Soo” choose
and more make this
a perfect destination.
from over 1200 hotel rooms,
River of History
Museum
America's
Best Value Inn
including excellent offerings
from our Motorcoach-friendly
properties listed at right.
888-744-7867
www.riverofhistory.org
If the St. Marys River could talk, what would
it tell us? At this beautifully-curated museum,
it tells the story of native peoples, fur traders,
explorers, military history, geology and more in
its 11 interactive galleries.
4404 I-75 Bus. Spur
800-228-5150
Days Inn
Soo Locks Boat Tours
and Dinner Cruises
800-432-6301 www.soolocks.com
Don’t just watch ships go through the Soo
Locks—join them! Board a comfortable
tour boat and “lock through.” View
historic sites and on some tours, area
lighthouses as well. Or make a reservation
to enjoy a delicious on-board buffet
dinner on a Soo Locks Dinner Cruise!
Museum Ship Valley Camp
and Tower of History
Holiday Inn Express
1171 Riverview Way
800-632-7879
Kewadin Casino
2186 Shunk Road
800-539-2346
Long Ships Motel
427 W. Portage Ave.
888-690-2422
Ramada Plaza
Ojibway Hotel
888-744-7867 www.saulthistoricsites.com
The restored lake carrier Valley Camp is open for your
exploration along with over 100 nautical exhibits including
lifeboats from the Edmund Fitzgerald. Then take an elevator
210 feet up to the top of the Tower of History for stunning
views of the Soo Locks, St. Marys River and the twin Saults.
Pictured below is the Museum Ship Valley Camp viewed
from the Tower of History.
…an overnight in Sault Ste. Marie
will make your Northern
Michigan itinerary
comp
complete!
3651 I-75 Bus. Spur
800-329-7466
240 W. Portage Ave.
800-654-2929
Soo Locks
Lodge & Suites
3295 I-75 Bus. Spur
906-635-3000
Super 8
3525 I-75 Bus. Spur
906-632-6000
 Motorcoach–Friendly Lodging
—listed above
 Custom Itineraries
 Group Rates
 Step-On Guide Service
www.saultstemarie.com
1-800-647-2858
Itinerary/
MINNESOTA
MINNESOTA
Photo: Twin Cities Premium Outlets
Find it and buy it in Minnesota
Twin Cities Premium Outlets, Eagan
GO
Bloomington, Duluth,
Minneapolis, Red Wing,
Saint Paul and Stillwater
SHOP
Mall of America
952-883-8800
mallofamerica.com
Twin Cities Premium Outlets
612-444-8850
premiumoutlets.com/twincities
ASK
Discover Stillwater
651-351-1717
discoverstillwater.com
Eagan Convention
& Visitors Bureau
866-324-2620
eaganmn.com
Explore Minnesota
800-657-3700
exploreminnesota.com
Red Wing Visitors
& Convention Bureau
651-385-5934
redwing.org
Visit Duluth
800-438-5884
visitduluth.com
The shopping is great in Minnesota.
In Minneapolis, find the newest shopping hotspot in the North Loop neighborhood hosting some unique and trendy
boutiques. Grand Avenue in Saint Paul
adds additional variety with a wide range of
styles that complement the ultimate shopping paradise in nearby Bloomington: Mall
of America, which is lined with upscale
designer and brand names. And don’t miss
the bargains at the outlets. There also are
retailers of unique crafts, antiques and outdoor goods throughout the state. With no
tax on clothing, shoes, food and medicine,
Minnesota is a bargain hunter’s dream.
Explore Minnesota provided this eightday itinerary.
Day One
Mall of America, the country’s largest
entertainment and shopping complex, is
located in suburban Bloomington. Mall
of America boasts more than 520 stores
plus Nickelodeon Universe — an indoor
amusement park, SEA LIFE Minnesota
Aquarium, restaurants, nightclubs and
movie theaters.
Day Two
From rags to riches, The North Loop has
made the ultimate transformation. Within
20 years, this historic neighborhood has
gone from industrial railroads to a shopping hotspot. This artistic neighborhood is
located just north of downtown Minneapolis. Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis’ pedestrian
walkway, has an array of shops in City Center and Gaviidae Common. Target Corporation’s headquarters store also is located here.
And the mall features dozens of restaurants.
Day Three
Saint Paul’s Grand Avenue hosts numerous one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques.
This stretch of owner-operated stores
parallels historic Summit Avenue, the longest street of Victorian homes in America.
Plenty of restaurants, eateries and bars
punctuate the avenue.
Day Four
Don’t forget the outlets. Albertville
Premium Outlets, 20 miles northwest of
Minneapolis, and Twin Cities Premium
Outlets in Eagan, both boast 100 designer
and brand-name outlets. To the northeast
of the metro is North Branch Outlets (50
stores), while 55 miles south is the Medford
Outlet Center (40 stores).
Cabella’s, the direct marketer and specialty retailer of hunting, fishing, camping
and related outdoor recreation merchandise, has locations in Rogers, Owatonna
and Woodbury.
Day Five
Stillwater and Red Wing are antique and
collectible hunters’ paradises. These Victorian river towns on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers are just a short drive from
the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area. Both are
replete with riverside shopping districts,
microbreweries, wineries and historic
hotels. South, in the bluff country of the
Mississippi River on the Great River Road,
a National Scenic Byway, lie additional
towns with regional products and cultural
interest, including those of the Amish.
Day Six
Duluth’s Lake Superior boardwalk
and harbor area feature specialty items at
Fitger’s Brewery Complex, an 1857 brewery
filled with unique shops. The Holiday Center Mall and downtown-shopping district
contain a number of shops connected by
skywalk. The Canal Park Shops host waterfront shopping. Overnight in Duluth and
then explore the North Shore Scenic Drive,
an All-American Road, the next day.
Day Seven
Travel to the Canadian border and back
to seek out unusual local wares, including
Lake Superior agates and Native American
crafts and foodstuffs, such as wild rice, en
route.
Day Eight
Return to the Twin Cities. If flying out
of Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, take advantage of the shopping opportunities in Terminal One and throughout the concourses.S
38
Season
MINNESOTA
Mall of America to welcome FlyOver America
ride vehicles before a giant
half-spherical, 270-degree
dome screen — larger
than IMAX.”
Mall of America provides a free VIP meetand-greet service for
groups, which includes
a brief introduction to
the mall, a sturdy Mall of
America bag and a coupon book for each guest
(for leisure groups only,
not corporate groups).
The mall offers abundant parking for motorcoaches. Contact Millie
Philipp (millie.philipp@moa.net) to
register a group and request a meetand-greet.S
Photo: Mall of America
With 520 retail stores, the
Mall of America (MOA)
is a shopper’s dream. And
there’s no sales tax on
clothing in Minnesota.
But this gigantic mall
in Bloomington dazzles
even non-shoppers. Seven
Yankee Stadiums in size, it
has a Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park, Sea
Life Minnesota Aquarium,
miniature golf, 52 dining
options and entertainment
that includes over 400 free
events each year, many of
them celebrity appearances
and concerts. You can even get married there. That’s why since opening its
doors in 1992, MOA has become one of
the top United States tourist destinations — and it’s expanding.
“The Mall of America expansion
will include a 342-room JW Marriott
hotel, office tower, additional retail and
dining options and large event space,”
said MOA tourism communications
manager Leif Pettersen.
In addition, he said the mall will
soon welcome two new attractions
— a pop-up MN Children’s Museum
“play-space” and a 60,000-square-foot
Crayola attraction.
Particularly exciting, groups will soon
be able to experience FlyOver America.
“It’s a flight simulation ride that
brings guests on a breathtaking, aerial
tour of some of the greatest landmarks
Legoland, Mall of America, Bloomington
and regions throughout the U.S. in virtual flight technology,” Pettersen said.
“During the feature ride, guests will
strap into their seat and be suspended
in the air with feet dangling 10 to 25
feet above the ground in specialized
this
is
my
Mall of America
mallofamerica.com
saint paul
HOTEL RATE SEARCH | CUSTOM FAM TOURS | MOTORCOACH PARKING
mhernandez@visitsaintpaul.com | VisitSaintPaul.com/groups | 800.627.6101
surround yourself with options
From fashionistas to fun seekers to food lovers, Mall of America® has something for everyone to enjoy with
520 stores, over 50 restaurants and attractions galore! Book a group experience and see why over 12,000 groups
visit Mall of America annually. Scavenger hunts, behind-the-scenes tours and VIP shopping packages are all available.
mallofamerica.com
|
bloomingtonmn.org
Nov • Dec • Jan
39
MINNESOTA
preserves cultural crossroads
Places,
everyone.
Experience the historic
Paramount Theatre.
A one-of-a-kind
St. Cloud find.
800.264.2940
GraniteCountry.com
year, the interpretive
historic site buzzes
with activity. Three log
buildings are here — the
great hall, kitchen and
canoe warehouse —
plus historic gardens
and interpretive exhibits.
An Ojibwe village, voyageur’s encampment and
the dock also provide a
look into the past.
“Depending on the
time of year, a tour
guide may be available
for group historic site
tours,” Drost said. “During our summer season, we don’t usually offer tours
because of the many living history activities, programs and demonstrations
scheduled throughout the day.”
The second full weekend in August
is especially busy with the annual Rendezvous Days gathering.
Admission to the Grand Portage
National Monument is free. Planners
should call or email in advance to arrange group visits. Limited motorcoach
parking is near the heritage center,
a short walk from the living history
demonstrations.S
Photo: National Park Service
When the fur traders of the North West
Company arrived on the
northern shores of Lake
Superior in the 1700s, they
connected with members
of the Ojibwe tribe.
Costumed interpreters
and park rangers work to
keep this era alive at the
Grand Portage National
Monument in Grand
Portage. The historic site
stands on the shores of
Lake Superior within the
Grand Portage Indian
Reservation. The tribe and the National
Park Service work together to ensure its
success.
“We welcome travel groups and
buses,” said Elizabeth Drost, a park
Grand Portage National Monument, Grand Portage
ranger in the interpretation division.
“We offer a 20-minute film in the
heritage center. It is a popular first stop
for visitors.”
The 16,600-square-foot heritage
center opened in 2007, constructed
for $4 million. It stands on a rocky hill
overlooking the monument’s re-constructed fur trading post. Pine pillars
rise to the sky, pointing out the four
cardinal directions — an important
concept to the Ojibwe culture. Inside,
the exhibits help explain both Ojibwe
and French voyageur cultures.
Drost recommends taking the short
stroll to the site of the North West
Company’s inland headquarters from
1785 to 1802.
During the warmer months of the
218-475-0123
nps.gov/grpo
So close to Minneapolis
we share a zip code.
St. Louis Park is just minutes from downtown Minneapolis, sports venues,
the arts and nature – plus, our hotels offer FREE bus parking and are walking
distance to The Shops at West End shopping and entertainment district.
www.discoverstlouispark.com
info@discoverstlouispark.com
(952) 426-4047
VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO GET CONNECTED TO A ST. LOUIS PARK HOTEL.
40
Create unforgettable Minnesota memories. See the Mississippi River
headwaters and shimmering Lake Superior. Follow the Great River Road or 20
other scenic byways. Find festivals for music and fun. Experience world-class
dining and theater, concerts, museums, shopping and hands-on attractions.
For group travel planning, visit traveltrade.exploreminnesota.com.
Photo: Columbia CVB
Itinerary/
MISSOURI
MISSOURI
Francis Quadrangle,
University of Missouri, Columbia
GO
Columbia
DO
Paint the Town
573-777-7795
paintthetowncolumbia.com
SEE
Boone County
Historical Society Museum
573-443-8936
boonehistory.org
Columbia’s Urban Farm
573-514-4174
columbiaurbanag.org
SHOP
The Candy Factory
573-443-8222
thecandyfactory.biz
SIP
Les Bourgeois Vineyards
800-690-1830
missouriwine.com
ASK
Columbia Convention
and Visitors Bureau
573-875-1231
visitcolumbiamo.com
Uncover Columbia’s
art, food and history
With thriving arts, entertainment, and
locally sourced eateries, Columbia is a great
group destination. Visitors are always delightfully surprised by Columbia’s unique
blend of small town and big city.
“We like to think of Columbia as being
like a cool neighborhood in a big city,” said
Beth Mead, convention sales manager at
Columbia Convention and Visitors Bureau.
“We have a young vibe that appeals to
people of all ages and a creative, engaged
community.”
Tour groups can spend time feasting on
art, history and well, just feasting.
Day One
Start the day with a tour of Columbia’s
Urban Farm. The farm is 1.3 acres packed
full of vegetables, chickens, native plants,
bees and friendly folks. During the 90-minute tour, visitors see composting bins,
chicken flocks, beehives, a rain garden,
no-till vegetable production and examples
of edible landscaping.
All that talking about food should make
the group hungry, so head to The Candy
Factory in Columbia where they cover almost
anything with chocolate: cookies, fruit and
potato chips. Buy some to enjoy at home.
Next up is history, art and architecture — all in one spot. A local treasure,
the historic Missouri Theatre was restored
to its original grandeur in 2008. Housed
within is the Columbia Art League, which
offers rotating exhibits and a retail space
showcasing local artisans.
Enjoy lunch on the stage or at a unique
Columbia restaurant.
Take a public arts tour, via coach or
on foot.
The tour members can get in touch
with their inner artist at Paint the Town, a
company that creates fun, interactive experiences for groups. Or enjoy free paint time
while decorating wine glasses or a canvas.
Check in to one of Columbia’s many
group friendly hotels and rest a bit before
dinner. The hardest part of planning the
trip will be deciding where to eat.
Day Two
After breakfast, visit the Boone County
Historical Society Museum, Columbia’s
only museum located in a park. The group
can peek into the past by visiting the Boone
History Village, browsing the indoor displays and enjoying the current art displays.
It’s time to “head to school.” The
University of Missouri’s Historic Francis
Quadrangle is the oldest section of campus
and one of the prettiest areas to tour. In
addition, the entire campus is a designated
botanic garden. From the quadrangle, the
next stop should be Buck’s Ice Cream (on
campus) for a tour and tasting.
Enjoy lunch at a local Columbia spot.
After lunch, feed your inner artist or
your inner foodie in Columbia’s thriving
downtown, known as The District. Check
out Boone County Olive Oil Company and
sample the tasty flavored oils and vinegars. Step in to any one of the local coffee
roasters: Lakota, Fretboard or Shortwave.
Sparky’s has small-batch craft ice cream.
Go to Harold’s for craft doughnuts and to
Craft Beer Cellar for beer. Other stops can
include: Bluestem Missouri Crafts, Poppy,
Artlandish Gallery, Sager-Braudis Gallery
and Imago.
Only 15 minutes from Columbia in the
picturesque town of Rocheport, the Bourgeois family operates the second largest
winery in Missouri. Spend an hour or so
touring the quaint shops of Rocheport and
then enjoy a wine tasting and shopping at
Les Bourgeois.
Return to the hotel to rest and relax.
Then it’s off to a fabulous dinner.S
42
Season
MISSOURI
Lake of the Ozarks is known as Missouri’s Fun Lake, but its development
meant welcome work for thousands
during the Great Depression.
The Great Osage River Project dam,
completed in 1931, provided the promised hydroelectric power and created
the (then) largest man-made lake in the
country, turning central Missouri into
a vacation destination.
For an overview of the area, Lake of
the Ozarks public relations representative
Marjorie Beenders recommends a visit to
the free Bagnell Dam museum at historic
Willmore Lodge.
“You’ll get an understanding of how
the lake was created, and you won’t get a
prettier view than from right there on the
deck,” she said.
The nearby Bagnell Dam Strip is an
old-fashioned tourist area adjacent to
the 2,543-foot long engineering marvel,
where motorcoaches can park and allow
Osage Beach Premium Outlets, Osage Beach
Lake of the Ozarks is shopping hot spot
Osage Beach Premium Outlets, Osage Beach
time for browsing the souvenir shops. And, said Jennifer West, group sales
manager for Lake of the Ozarks, “You
can walk right out on the dam and take
pictures.”
Serious shoppers head to the 110
name-brand stores of Osage Beach Premium Outlets, where groups scoop up
terrific bargains and enjoy special events
like dinners and style shows.
“It is truly a destination, and ar-
chitecturally, it’s very attractive,” said
Beenders. Also in Osage Beach, The
Landing on Main Street is known for
unique shops and entertainment at the
Main Street Music Hall.
Group-friendly dining options range
from Stewart’s, which has been serving
comfort food since 1953, to dozens of
waterfront restaurants along the lake’s
1,150-mile shoreline. Groups can also
book a meal on one of the tour boats
that cruise the 54,000-acre reservoir,
recently named the country’s “Best Recreational Lake” by USA Today readers.
“The hardest thing to do is to come
to the lake and not get out on the
water,” said Beenders. “A boat cruise is
absolutely wonderful. It’s a must.”S
Lake of the Ozarks
800-386-5253
funlake.com
Underneath the dome of the Missouri
State Capitol, the governor, legislators
and other elected officials go about the
business of the Show Me State.
The Missouri Department of Natural
Resources Division of State Parks offers
tours of the building and its first-floor
museum.
“The Missouri State Capitol is
definitely beautiful,” said Stephanie
Deidrick, information officer. “There’s
a lot of artwork on display — a lot of
history and a lot of Missouri history.”
Since the beginning of the 20th
century, the Missouri State Museum’s
curators and staff have collected approximately 30,000 items, exploring
many aspects of Missouri’s heritage.
The museum is open year-round,
with varying hours according to the
season. Admission is free, and groups
of 10 or more should call in advance to
notify staff of their visit.
After groups have toured the museum, they can expand their visit to the
Photo: Missouri Division of Tourism
Step into history at Missouri State Capitol
Missouri State Capitol, Jefferson City
rest of the Capitol.
“The Missouri State Museum is
responsible for several areas beyond the
first floor,” Deidrick said. “Our guests
really enjoy seeing all the exhibits.”
Missouri State Park guides are available to take groups through the building, sharing details about its history and
artwork. The free tours take between 45
minutes and an hour.
“With a guided tour, groups get another level of understanding,” Deidrick
said. “They will find things they might
not be able to find on their own.”
Groups of 10 or more need to make
reservations for Capitol tours, which
can be made online or by calling the
Missouri State Museum.
Many groups make time for the nearby Governor’s Mansion and Jefferson
Landing State Historic Site.S
Missouri State Museum
573-751-2854
mocapitoltours.com
Nov • Dec • Jan
43
Photo: Trumbull County Tourism Bureau
Itinerary/
OHIO OHIO
National Packard Museum, Warren
GO
Trumbull County
DO
Wagon Trails Animal Park
330-539-4494
wagontrails.com
EAT
Saratoga Restaurant
330-393-6646
warrensaratoga.com
Yamato Japanese Restaurant
330-399-8883
yamatojapanese.com
SEE
Ernie Hall Aviation Museum
erniehallaviationmuseum.org
National Packard Museum
330-394-1899
packardmuseum.org
ASK
Trumbull County Tourism Bureau
866-360-1552
exploretrumbullcounty.com
Find wings and wheels
in Trumbull County
Trumbull County, which is located in
northeastern Ohio and touches the Pennsylvania state line, is conveniently located
between Cleveland and Pittsburgh.
“Trumbull County is ideal as a day-trip
destination, an accommodations hub for a
multiday tour or an overnight stop along
the way,” said Stephanie Sferra, executive
director of the Trumbull County Tourism
Bureau. “Here is a sample two-day tour to
entice you to come explore and experience
Trumbull County.”
Day One
Begin the visit to Trumbull County in
Warren with a visit to the “First Flight”
Lunar Module, a replica of Apollo 11’s
lunar landing module, located on the site
where Neil Armstrong, the first man on
the moon, took off during his first airplane
ride in 1936. He was 6 years old.
A short ride away is the National Packard Museum. While standing among the
classic Packard cars, museum staff will talk
about the history of the Packard family, the
Packard Motor Car Company and various
Packard enterprises.
The museum annually features an antique motorcycle exhibit, January through
May and its Packard Legacy Weekend event
every July.
“What’s in Your Barn?” is the title of
the 2016 motorcycle show and will focus on those hidden treasures that have
been tucked away in America’s barns for
years. This display of vintage two-wheel
works of art features nearly 30 “finds” that
were manufactured from the early 1900s
through the late 1970s.
Enjoy a box lunch in the Pilots Clubhouse
at the SLOAS Airfield, home of the new Ernie
Hall Aviation Museum, before touring the
museum with one of its resident pilots.
This new site honors local aviators’
contributions to the field of flight and
bears the name of one of America’s most
regarded aeronautical pioneers, Ernest C.
Hall. It’s filled with local, national and international aviation memorabilia, from the
birth of the industry through present day.
See such items such as letters written
between Hall and Orville Wright; signatures from pilots such as Amelia Earhart
and Chuck Yeager; and a piece of fabric
from the Fokker DR-1 Triplane that Manfred von Richthofen — better known as the
Red Baron — flew when he was shot down
and killed in 1918.
Every August the museum hosts its
Wings-n-Wheels event that traditionally
features up to 300 antique airplanes and
over 600 classic cars.
End the afternoon with a stop at the
Warren Community Amphitheatre to meet
a raptor and waterfowl rehabilitator. Group
members will encounter birds of prey, such
as falcons, hawks and owls, which have
been grounded by illness or injury.
After checking in to the hotel, enjoy
dinner at Yamato Japanese Restaurant,
where the chef cooks at the table.
Day Two
After breakfast, take an African safari ride
through the 62-acre Wagon Trails Animal
Park, named one of USA Today’s “Top 10
Safari Rides in North America.” See and feed
nearly 400 animals from around the world.
Next, enjoy a buffet lunch at a local
restaurant.
Take a quick tour of the three-tank
aquarium located in the center of the Eastwood Mall in Niles. Before departing the
shopping complex, browse the many stores
and shops located within the mall.
Not far away is PMG Chocolatier, a
chocolate lovers’ paradise packed with
thousands of chocolates, candies, snacks
and gifts. Watch the behind-the-scenes
hand-making process of traditional chocolates. Groups can even get into the action
and help make some of the chocolates sold
in the store.
Before heading to the hotel for the
evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at the
Saratoga Restaurant, a downtown Warren
institution celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2016. While enjoying dessert, watch
a magic show performed by local comedian
Eric Thompson.S
44
Season
OHIO
The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake
is gateway to Ohio’s wine country
Photo: The Lodge & Conference Center at Geneva-on-the-Lake
No need to pack and unpack daily
— The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake
offers beautiful lakefront vistas of Lake
Erie and a variety of tour options.
“We are in the center of Ohio’s
Grand River wine region with 20
wineries about 30 minutes away,” said
Ken Hlavek, group sales. “Cleveland’s
Lakefront Stadium, Rock and Roll Hall
of Fame and University Circle museums
are within an hour drive time. Then
there is the nearby Amish country and
covered bridges in Ashtabula County.”
A quality stay at a reasonable price, the
resort property in Geneva-on-the-Lake
has earned a place in the Trip Advisor
Hall of Fame after five years of consecutive Excellent ratings and was named a
Top 20 Summer Lake Vacation spot in
North America by VacationIdea.com.
Photo: Becky Linhardt
Horizons Restaurant, The Lodge & Conference Center at Geneva-on-the-Lake
“Most groups visit Sunday-Thursday
in the spring and fall when things are
a bit quieter,” Hlavek said. “During the
week we can arrange for the group to
dine in our Horizons restaurant with its
beautiful lake view or help schedule a
visit to Kent State’s Wine and Culinary
Center, Pairings, in Geneva for cooking
classes or wine pairing dinners.”
For those who want to dine in the
vineyards, the lodge’s conference coordinator can help book tours, lunches or
dinners at nearby wineries for the whole
bus, or book a shuttle service for smaller
groups in their 14-passenger vans.
If not everyone in the group is focused
on the wineries, tour operators can offer
free time at the lodge with resort op-
tions such as indoor and outdoor pools,
a birding trail and lakefront paths to
wander, complimentary bikes available
to ride along the lakefront or into nearby
Geneva-on-the-Lake in the summer for
a nostalgic look back at the 1960s.
The area celebrates winter with an
Ice Wine Festival. At the lodge, guests
can watch snow swirl from the warmth
of the indoor pool or outdoor hot tub.
Complimentary snowshoes and crosscountry skis are available for adventurous guests.S
440-415-1548
thelodgeatgeneva.com
Immerse yourself in Cleveland’s past...
Explore historic mansions, peek into the closets of
Cleveland’s past, take a spin on the Euclid Beach Park
Grand Carousel, or imagine yourself behind the wheel
of one of the many vehicles on display.
Call to book your group tour of the
Western Reserve Historical Society today!
(216) 721-5722 ext. 1405 • www.wrhs.org
#CLEhistory
Nov • Dec • Jan
45
What if fun were
an art form?
What do 500
butterflies
sound like?
You don’t have to be an art connoisseur to fall in love with the amazing
cultural experiences you’ll find in Columbus. So get ideas for your
customized itinerary at experiencecolumbus.com/tours.
What would it look
like if 100 fireworks
went off at once?
What will you experience?
SM
Produced
Produced
by The
by The
Children’s
Children’s
Museum
Museum
of Indianapolis
of Indianapolis
September 26, 2015 –
May 8, 2016
GROUP ADVENTURES
© 2015 The LEGO Group. All rights reserved.
Discover your Irish Attitude at
www.IrishisanAttitude.com
614.792.7666
Groups call 614.629.3140
Enjoy
Sweet
Treats
at Kennedy’s
Bakery
John F. Wolfe Palm House
VISITGUERNSEYCOUNTY.COM
800.933.5480
www.fpconservatory.org
Can memories be
measured by the
scoopful?
Where
can I find the
Nov • Dec • Jan
22756_2.25x4.25_HOA_groupzoo.indd 1
47
12/16/14 1:45 PM
OHIO
The Cincinnati Museum Center at
Union Terminal has many, many tour
options at one site.
The huge art deco railroad terminal
is now home to three regionally important museums and an amazingly large
space for internationally important
exhibitions.
Now through May 8, 2016, CMC
will host “The Art of the Brick,” named
by CNN as a Top 10 “Must See Global
Exhibition.” Artist Nathan Sawaya has
elevated an iconic children’s toy, LEGO
bricks, to inspiring art re-creating such
works as da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and
Michelangelo’s David as well as other
world-renowned masterpieces.
“The Art of the Brick is exciting
for us because it appeals to multiple
generations as well as adult and student
group tours and can be combined with
WE LOVE TOUR BUSES
Photo: Robert Webber
brims with tour options
ticketing to the Museum of Natural
History, the Cincinnati History Museum and the Duke Energy Children’s
Museum, or possibly an OMNIMAX
presentation,” said Violet Rae Webster,
senior director of group tours. “We like
to help tour operators find the perfect
fit for their group, whatever their budget or itinerary allows.”
Ticketing for one or more museums
can be arranged and box lunches for
those who plan to stay the whole day.
“We also work with Cincinnati
Heritage Programs as an enhancement,”
Webster said. “They offer historic tours,
five different topics, with a step-on guide
that meets the bus at the museum.”
Part of CMC but located off-site at
The Banks along Cincinnati’s riverfront, the National Underground
Railroad Freedom Center is yet another
option.
Railroad enthusiasts enjoy the
historic Union Terminal by touring
the terminal including a visit to Tower
A with its vista of the railroad yard;
another favorite is the annual Holiday
Junction with displays featuring the
Duke Energy Holiday Trains. An experienced Certified Tourism Ambassador,
Webster can offer advice on other
train-related sites, help develop an all
I-71 itinerary and make suggestions
for accommodations, all to make the
Cincinnati Museum Center visit part of
a memorable tour experience.S
513-287-7068
cincymuseum.org
• Like shopping in the good, ole’ days!
• Everything you need under ONE ROOF
• Museum-quality antiques and
hand-carved artwork on display
• Housewares, hand tools, tin toys, locally
produced food and snacks, grills,
stoves and accessories
Between Wooster and Canton – just a few
miles from P. Graham Dunn and Smucker’s
T I C K E T S AVA I L A B L E
OhioStarTheater.com
Box Office 855-344-7547
IN THE HEART OF AMISH COUNTRY
OPEN EVERY DAY EXCEPT SUNDAY
Located within Carlisle Inn Sugarcreek
»
800.438.5346
LEHMANS.COM/TOURBUS
«
48
GroupToursJune2015.indd 1
Now Playing through December 19, 2015
Returning June 1 – November 8, 2016
6/26/15 2:40 PM
1357 Old Route 39
Sugarcreek, Ohio
Plan your
group travel
adventure with
Ferrante Winery & Ristorante
Geneva, Ohio
Nov • Dec • Jan
49
Plan your
group travel
adventure with
www.OhioHasIt.com
Toledo Museum of Art
Glassmaking Demonstration - Toledo, Ohio
Visit Shop Stay Eat
Dickinson Cattle Co.
Belmont
County
ohio
Unique
Hometown Charm...
Genuine Texas
Longhorn Cattle
Museums
Belmont County Sheriff’s
Residence Museum
Beautiful Scenery
including Three
Scenic Byways
Outdoor
Country Music
Quilt Barns
Great Festivals
800-243-4667
Friendly People!
www.VisitToledo.org
800-356-5082
St. Clairsville, Ohio 43950
beltour@aol.com
For information and itineraries:
www.belmontcountytourism.org
50
Toledo Zoo Aquarium Re-Opening March 27, 2015!
Point your groups
in a new direction
Trumbull County
in northeastern Ohio
Begin by requesting our
Group Tour Planning Packet
ExploreTrumbullCounty.com
866.360.1552
October 23, 2015
through
May 1, 2016
#ArtoftheBrick
(800) 733-2077
cincymuseum.org/groups
Photograph © Andy Donaldson Photography
Tuscarawas County Ohio
“Small towns, big stories!”
800–527–3387
w ww.tr aveltusc.com
Ohio’s Tuscarawas Valley…
S T e a mi ng Through History
Warther Carvings
Dennison Railroad
Depot Museum
Roundhouse
View the hand-carved
historic engines created
by the “World’s Master
Carver!” Group dinner
options are available.
Ride the Polar Express every
Christmas season! Tours
of the Depot are available
daily and eat at Lucille’s,
their 1940’s style diner!
See real steam engines
restored and repaired in this
working roundhouse and view
all 18 engine bays! Open only
to groups with reservation.
and Gardens
Age of Steam
Nov • Dec • Jan
51
Itinerary/
WISCONSIN
WISCONSIN
Mars’ Cheese Castle, Kenosha
GO
Kenosha
EAT
Twisted Cuisine
262-564-0220
twistedcuisine.com
SEE
Jelly Belly Visitor Center
262-947-3846
jellybelly.com
SHOP
Andrea’s
262-657-7732
andreasgifts.com
Jockey Factory Store
262-654-5737
jockey.com
Mars’ Cheese Castle
800-655-6147
marscheese.com
Pleasant Prairie Premium Outlets
262-857-3061, ext. 11
premiumoutlets.com
Tenuta’s Italian Market
262-657-9001
ASK
Kenosha Area Convention
& Visitors Bureau
262-857-7164
visitkenosha.com
Day Two
9 a.m. — Save 30 to 75 percent on
first-quality underwear for the family along
with stylishly comfortable activewear, pj’s,
and socks for men and women at Jockey
Factory Store in downtown Kenosha.
Check out the famous “backroom” for
amazing savings. The company has called
Kenosha home since 1893.
10 a.m. – Continue shopping in downtown Kenosha, including a stop at Sandy’s
Popper, where the group will find fresh
gourmet popcorn — and much more —
to take home.
11 a.m. — Shop
at Tenuta’s Italian
Market, a Kenosha
tradition since
1950. Enjoy this
authentic Italian
grocery in an “old
world setting.”
12:15 p.m.
Day One
— Enjoy a truly
10 a.m. — The
Wisconsin meal
group can spend the
and Wisconsin
morning shopping
souvenirs (say
to its heart’s content
“cheese” — as in
Tenuta’s Italian Market, Kenosha
at Pleasant Prairie
cheesehead hat)
Premium Outlets.
at Brat Stop.
Enjoy exceptional brands at extraordinary
2 p.m. — Enjoy more Wisconsin sousavings of 25 to 65 percent off every day.
venirs, cheese, sausage and wine at Mars’
The 90 stores include Kate Spade New York,
Cheese Castle. Founded in 1947, Mars’
Michael Kors and Ugg Australia.
Cheese Castle is a Wisconsin icon.
1 p.m. — Enjoy lunch and custard at
3:30 p.m. — Depart for home.
Culver’s Pleasant Prairie.
2 p.m. — Sample tasty candies and shop
Additional options:
for candy and souvenirs at Jelly Belly VisiPaint your own pottery at Alpaca Art
tor Center. And don’t forget to take the free
Pottery Painting.
Jelly Belly Express train tour.
A small group can sit down at the
4 p.m. — Shop for Kenosha souvealways-open beading table at Red Rose’s
nirs, gourmet foods and candy, bath and
Bead Haven.
body products and fashion accessories at
Plan a party to decorate cookies or cupAndrea’s, a unique fourth-generation shop.
cakes at Robin’s Nest Cakery.
Enjoy a treat at the historic soda fountain.
Enjoy elite collegiate baseball and shop
5 p.m. — Check in to one of Kenosha’s
for souvenirs at a Kenosha Kingfish game.
premier hotels for the evening.
Visiting on a Saturday? Shop at Kenosha
6 p.m. — For casual gourmet dining
HarborMarket, open from March through
with a twist, head to Twisted Cuisine.
December.S
Kenosha is located on the shore of Lake
Michigan in southeast Wisconsin, and
the Kenosha Area Convention & Visitors
Bureau welcomes motorcoach groups to
the community.
Eva Hoey, the bureau’s visitor information center director and group sales
specialist, said groups will find bus-loads of
fun things to do in Kenosha, ranging from
candy company tours, specialty stores and
outlet mall shopping to museums, electric
streetcars and historic lakefront buildings.
Hoey shared this sample shopping
itinerary.
For groups staying
overnight, the bureau
offers complimentary
welcome bags and a
complimentary welcome reception at the
Interstate 94 Visitor
Information Center.
Photo: Kenosha Area CVB
Photo: Kenosha Area CVB
Kenosha’s shopping
opportunities draw groups
52
Season
WISCONSIN
Janesville gets back to its roots
• Botanical Gardens
• Historic Homes
• Worlds Largest
Pheasant Farm
• Industry Tours
Some of Wisconsin’s earliest settlers
House, a fully restored five-story
made camp on the banks of the Rock
Italianate-style villa with 75 percent of
River. Running through the heart of
the original furnishings still intact.
what is now downtown Janesville,
Alternately, the Wisconsin Wagon
modern-day residents continue to enjoy
Company offers one-hour tours of its
the river for its beauty and recreation.
manufacturing facility. Retired master
Located in the heart of south central
craftsmen work part-time to build
Wisconsin, Janesover two-dozen
ville is an easy
wooden prodplace to visit.
ucts by hand.
“Janesville
Welcoming
is known for its
buses yeargreat affordability
round, Janesville
and convenience,”
offers a variety
said Susan Melton,
of holiday tours,
marketing director
seasonal events
at the Janesville
and budgetArea Convenfriendly options
tion and Visitors
for groups of
Bureau. “We’re
all sizes. Melton
located within an
helps to arrange
Rotary Botanical Gardens, Janesville
easy drive from
both day and
Chicago, Rockovernight trips,
ford, Milwaukee, Madison, the Wisconincluding step-on guides and itineraries
sin Dells, and both international and
that are customized based on the needs
national airports.
and interest of the group.
“The Rotary Botanical Gardens is
“The No. 1 reason people come
our most popular destination with
to Janesville for a group tour is that
groups,” Melton added. “Visitors exwe love them and all of our attracperience 24 unique garden styles and
tions love them,” Melton said. “We’re a
over 4,000 varieties of plants. Docents
welcoming and warm community and
are available to lead groups through the
are always really excited to have groups
gardens.”
come our way.”S
Groups interested in architecture and
history may enjoy the Historic Homes
Janesville Area Convention
Tour, a guided tour showcasing many
and Visitors Bureau
of the area’s architectural styles. One
608-757-3171
notable example is the Lincoln-Tallman
janesvillecvb.com/tours
Photo: Janesville Area Convention and Visitors Bureau
What could be healthier than visiting a vibrant destination filled with
miles of waterfront, lighthouses, museums, historical tours and
fishing charters? Wherever your group’s interests lie, Kenosha offers
tours filled with adventure.
•
VISITKENOSHA.COM/groups 800–654–7309
Nov • Dec • Jan
53
WISCONSIN
Stoughton shows small-town charm
Founded in 1847, Stoughton is
nestled along the fertile banks of the
Yahara River. A location 15 minutes
from the modern-day conveniences
of Madison has enabled Stoughton to
embrace and maintain its small-town
charm.
“The majority of groups visiting
Stoughton have a strong interest in
history,” explained Laura Trotter, visitor
services coordinator with the Stoughton Chamber of Commerce. “We also
have a vibrant downtown scene, with
authentic shopping and unique dining
venues.”
Stoughton is home to the Stoughton
Incredible architecture
to fashionable shopping,
fun in Milwaukee
Opera House, one of the few remaining
second-story opera houses in Wisconsin.
“Visitors love to tour the beautifully
restored building and many groups
purchase a block of seats for a regularseason performance or matinee show,”
she said.
Another group tour highlight is the
BOOK YOUR
GROUP TODAY
is not only EASY,
it’s mandatory.
World-class museums & mansions
Trendy boutiques
& timeless antiques
Award-winning restaurants
BRING YOUR GROUP TO DISCOVER
WORLD-RENOWNED ART AND
STELLAR EXHIBITIONS!
Bring your group to Milwaukee —
you’ll find it easy here. grouptour@milwaukee.org
http://www.visitmilwaukee.org/tour-operators
Larry Sultan: Here and Home
Oct 23, 2015–Jan 24, 2016
Nature and the American Vision:
The Hudson River School
Feb 26–May 8, 2016
American Epics: Thomas Hart
Benton and Hollywood
June 10–Sept 5, 2016
grouptours@mam.org
414-224-3842
November 20 – December 27
54
Photo: Stoughton Chamber of Commerce
WISCONSIN
Livsreise Norwegian Heritage Center, Stoughton
Sweet!
Video Train Tours!
9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Daily
FREE Candy Samples!
JELLY BELLY VISITOR CENTER
10100 Jelly Belly Lane, Pleasant Prairie, WI
(Corner of Hwy 165 & Green Bay Rd.)
Store Open Daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
JellyBelly.com
1-866-868-7522
®, TM, © 2015 Jelly Belly Candy Company, Fairfield, CA 94533 U.S.A.
SUPERB MUSICALS
MEMORABLE DINING
SPECTACULAR SHOPS
FABULOUS SERVICE
More than you’d ever expect!
www.firesidetheatre.com
Fort Atkinson, WI | 800-477-9505
Is your group
ready for a
glimpse into a life
LESS
ORDINARY?
• Group rates
• Complimentary Museum
tickets for your bus driver
and group leader or escort
• Free bus parking
• Guided experiences
available
Livsriese (pronounced Lif-rys-sa) Norwegian Heritage Center, a free museum
focused on the Norwegian immigration experience and how Norwegian
culture has impacted communities
across southern Wisconsin.
“The heritage center uses a combination of high-tech interactive displays and authentic, museum-quality
artifacts,” Trotter explained. Located
within the museum is the Livsriese
Genealogy Center, a digital library
operated in conjunction with the Norwegian American Genealogical Center
and Naeseth Library in Salt Lake City.
“We welcome large groups to
Stoughton all year-round,” Trotter added. “Many of our attractions are within
a four-block area, but we can always arrange for a door-to-door experience for
groups visiting in the winter months or
for anyone with limited mobility.” Trotter said motorcoach parking is readily
available at all tour destination stops.
All tours are customized based on
the needs, time and interests of the
group.
Trotter can also arrange for step-on
guides, authentic Norwegian food and
overnight lodging.
A sample Norwegian Heritage Tour,
including cost/person, is available in
the group tour area of the chamber
website.S
Stoughton Chamber of Commerce
888-873-7912
stoughtonwi.com
stoughtonwi.com/attractions/
group_tours.asp
Photo: Stoughton Chamber of Commerce
What’s Real?
Fred’s basement,
Danish Kringle
bakeries, Frank Lloyd
Wright architecture,
Windpoint Lighthouse
GET BOOKED
groups@h-dmuseum.com
414-287-2799
Milwaukee, WI
h-dmuseum.com
and more.
Visit us at www.GroupsLoveRacine.com
facebook.com/realracine
EXHIBITS | SHOP | RESTAURANTS
Downtown Stoughton
Nov • Dec • Jan
55
Photo: Courtesy of the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau
NEW ENGLAND Region
Shops along
Massachusetts Avenue,
Harvard Square,
Cambridge, Mass.
Boston
Go for history, stay to shop
By Mary Lu Laffey
Boston is as famous for its hospitality as it is for
the accent of its 3.7 million residents. The 18 million
visitors that arrive each year rather expect the “r’s”
to be missing in conversation. Only in the capital of
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts will a stateside tour guide greet the group with a welcoming
“Hahwhaya?”instead of “How are you?”
Founded in 1630, early English settlers reportedly
didn’t pronounce r’s either. Over the centuries, the
blending speech patterns from the continuous arrival
of immigrants slowly erased any English inflection to
create the Boston accent as it is known today.
Modern-day Boston thrives as a unique blend of
cultures, a world-class city with New England charm.
Stacy Shreffler, group sales manager, invites
groups to uncover Boston’s past while enjoying its
modern edge, appreciate both the old masters and
the brew masters, relax on pedal-powered swan
boat rides or watch whales from a high-speed
catamaran.
56
Year-round
In the spring, Boston’s parks and greenways
invite groups to tour the Rose Kennedy Greenway,
the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum and the
Public Garden, where statues of a family of bronze
ducks greet visitors. Photos of Mrs. Quack, Zack,
Mack, Oack and the rest of her brood have been
tweeted around the planet.
The warmth of summer brings the fans and
visitors to Fenway Park for a tour or a baseball
game.
Because the city is built on the Atlantic Ocean
and backs into the Charles River, water tours are an
easy way to cruise by landmarks, view the skylines
of both Boston and Cambridge or venture out onto
the ocean on a whale-watching excursion.
In winter, the Beacon Hill neighborhood
provides picture-postcard views along cobblestone
streets and decorated shops.
Boston’s shops and galleries are inviting any
NEW
ENGLAND
Region
time of year whether members of the group are
seasoned bargain hunters or window shoppers.
Quincy Market, part of
Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston
Maine
Vermont
New Hampshire
Massachusetts
Rhode Island
Connecticut
Window shopping,
Charles Street,
Beacon Hill neighborhood,
Boston
Each night in December, the top of Prudential Tower is lit as part of “31 Nights of Light,” a
recognition program that spotlights the work of
31 community organizations.
For a day trip, consider an outing to the Kittery
Outlets, The Outlets at Assembly Row or Wrentham Village Premium Outlets Center. All provide
bargain seekers with a wide variety of shopping
experiences.
Located in the heart of Boston at the waterfront, Faneuil Hall Marketplace is only a fiveminute walk from Paul Revere’s House.
The marketplace offers a history lesson along
with shopping, dining and entertainment venues.
Founded for merchants in 1742, it remains
an important part of the Boston landscape. The
marketplace houses 125 shops and kiosks, and
21 restaurants. The appearance of musicians and
street performers keeps the ambience light both
inside the hall and outside along the pedestrian
walkways.
In Boston, remember there is no sales tax
on clothing valued under $175 and only a 6.25
percent sales tax on other purchases, including
meals.S
Shop ’til you drop
In Boston, shop artisanal markets, centers or
chic boutiques without worrying about missing an
important tour stop; most are found near historical attractions. Many shopping areas and malls
offer pre-arranged tours for groups.
Window-shopping along Charles Street in Boston’s Beacon Hill neighborhood is a contender as
a free-time option. Only a ½-mile square, Charles
Street is lined with boutiques, specialty shops and
the occasional upscale resale store.
Shops along Massachusetts Avenue in Harvard
Square located in Cambridge provide a feast of
world-renowned shopping with the added plus of
fine dining and cultural institutions.
Streets in Cambridge are lined with a variety
of stores from high-end to funky. Shopping and
browsing is made even more fun because of the
ambience created by street musicians and performers.
Copley Place is located in historic Back Bay
near Old South Church. An indoor mall and part
of a mixed-use complex, it offers two levels of
high-end shopping at more than 75 stores. Neiman Marcus is one of the retail anchors.
Copley Place shopping bags are available at
guest services; the $1 charge benefits the
Simon Youth Foundation. A glass walkway connects the mall to the Prudential Center shops.
The Shops at Prudential Center is also an
enclosed mall. Consider a stop at the top for a
view of the city from Prudential Tower’s Skywalk
Observatory.
Connecticut
p.58
Maine
p.60
Massachusetts
p.62
New Hampshire
p.66
Rhode Island
p.68
Vermont
p.70
Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau
617-867-8244, groups
bostonusa.com
Nov
• Dec••Mon
Jan
Mon
• Mon
57
57
Photo: Western Connecticut CVB
Itinerary/
CONNECTICUT
CONNECTICUT
Sheffield Island lighthouse, Norwalk
GO
New Canaan, Norwalk,
Stamford and Wilton
DO
Norwalk Seaport Association
203-838-9444
seaport.org
SoundWaters
203-323-1978
soundwaters.org
SEE
Bush-Holley House
203-869-6899
hstg.org
Center for Contemporary Printmaking
203-899-7999
contemprints.org
Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum
203-838-9799
lockwoodmathewsmansion.com
Philip Johnson Glass House
203-978-3015
theglasshouse.org
Silvermine Arts Center
203-966-9700
silvermineart.org
Wilton Historical Society
203-762-7257
wiltonhistorical.org
The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk
maritimeaquarium.org
ASK
Western Connecticut Convention and
Visitors Bureau
888-588-7880
visitwesternct.com
58
Winter 2015 •• GroupTour.com
Season
GroupTour.com
Plumb Fairfield County’s art,
architecture and maritime heritage
The creative artists, stunning architecture and rich maritime heritage of Fairfield
County in northwest Connecticut can be
the ingredients for a group tour.
Andrea Quattrocci, sales and events
manager for Western Connecticut Convention and Visitors Bureau, shared this
sample two-day itinerary.
Day One
At Wilton Historical Society in Wilton,
explore two 18th-century classic center
chimney homes showcasing 14 period
rooms from the Colonial to the Victorian
eras, plus an art gallery, and exceptional toy
and train collection. Working blacksmith
demonstrations are a specialty.
In Norwalk, take a behind-the-scenes
tour at The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk. The aquarium puts groups nose-tonose with sharks, within inches of seals,
river otters, sea turtles, jellyfish and more
than 1,000 other marine animals.
Afterward, take a cruise on the aquarium’s research vessel, the Spirit of the Sound,
to learn about the marine life of Long
Island Sound.
Eat lunch in historic SoNo, South
Norwalk. From breweries to Indian, and
seafood to Mexican, group members will
find something to suit every palate.
The Center for Contemporary Printmaking in Norwalk is located in a 19thcentury stone carriage house and is
dedicated to the art of printmaking. Take
a printmaking tour that includes learning
about the history of printmaking, current
trends and how to collect prints. It also
includes a demonstration on using printmaking tools and materials, a demonstration on how to pull a print and a hands-on
experience that allows the group to create
their own prints.
Tour Norwalk’s Lockwood-Mathews
Mansion Museum, which predates Newport’s mansions and is regarded as one of
the earliest and most significant surviving
Second Empire-style country houses in
the United States. The mansion illustrates
the splendor of the Victorian era with its
unparalleled Gilded Age interiors and
furniture.
Enjoy a late afternoon cruise through
Norwalk Harbor to Sheffield Island with
Norwalk Seaport Association. Tour an
1868 lighthouse, take a walk on the beach,
explore the McKinney Wildlife Refuge and
enjoy an authentic clambake on the island.
Day Two
In New Canaan, tour the Philip Johnson Glass House, a National Trust Historic
Site designed by modern architect Philip
Johnson. A walking tour of this site’s pastoral landscape includes a tour of the Glass
House, the Painting Gallery, the Sculpture
Gallery, Da Monsta and temporary exhibits.
Tour the galleries at the Silvermine
Arts Center in New Canaan. The work of
a guild of over 300 professional artists is
showcased in the award-winning galleries,
and the center provides a wide range of
workshops for all levels.
After lunch, tour Bush-Holley House in
Cos Cob, administered by the Greenwich
Historical Society. This museum was home
to one of Connecticut’s first art colonies
and features interpretive rooms from two
distinct time periods — the New Nation
(1790–1825) and the Cos Cob Art Colony
(1890–1920). The collection includes
works by artists of the Cos Cob Art
Colony and other noted American
Impressionists.
End the afternoon in Stamford with a
SoundWaters cruise on an 80-foot threemasted schooner styled after a 19th-century Chesapeake Bay sharpie schooner.
After dinner, take in a performance at
one of Stamford’s theaters: Avon Theatre
Film Center, Curtain Call or Stamford
Center for the Arts.S
CONNECTICUT
At Mystic Seaport Museum in Mystic,
jewels of life at sea are abundant. One
of those treasures wears a crown like no
other — the Charles W. Morgan. Built
in 1841, it boasts the title of the oldest
commercial ship still afloat and the last
wooden whaling ship in the world.
The Morgan is the sole survivor of a
fleet of American whaling vessels that
once numbered 2,700 and sailed for
more than 200 years.
During its 80-year whaling venture,
the Morgan marked 37 voyages, most
lasting longer than three years. The vessel’s whaling days came to a close in the
early 1920s, and in 1941, it arrived in
Mystic Seaport. Last year, the Morgan
sailed its 38th voyage in celebration of
its restoration.
The Charles W. Morgan is the flagship exhibit at the museum and one of
its three tall ships.
A host of other treasures found on
the 19-acre museum complex include
Photo: Mystic Seaport, Mystic, CT
Step aboard history on the Charles W. Morgan
Charles W. Morgan, Mystic Seaport
a 19th-century village, gardens, other
historic sea-going vessels and the Preservation Shipyard. In addition, three
options for getting a bite to eat are
available on site.
To reasonably experience the museum, three to four hours are recom-
mended. Visitors can choose from
self-guided tours or guided tours for an
additional fee. The museum offers free
second-day admission.
Sarah Spencer, group sales manager,
has worked at the museum 25 years.
She’s also spent about 15 years as a
guide/interpreter.
“I think people are really caught by
our interpretation and education staff,”
she said. “They are incredibly engaging and make the experience special.
There’s great interaction and they bring
it to life for the visitor. We target the
1870s, but cover the 1840s to the 1920s.”
Reservations for tours are recommended at least two weeks in advance.
Group rates are available and free parking is provided on-site.S
Mystic Seaport
The Museum of America and the Sea
860-572-5309
mysticseaport.org
Aviation history soars at New England Air Museum
ing through three large hangars: Military Hangar, Civilian Hangar and the
58th Bomb Wing Memorial Hangar.
Breezing through a tour can take 1½
to two hours, but often visitors easily
spend three or four hours. People arrive with their own special interests
as to what fascinates them — aviation
history, military history or just plain
Photo: New England Air Museum
For those in a group whose hearts
beat faster when they are surrounded
by mechanical things with wings, the
New England Air Museum in Windsor
Locks is a perfect stop.
The museum offers a little something for every interest — capturing
the wonder of aviation as it unfolded
through history.
Aircraft from the earliest days of
aviation, the World Wars and modern
jets are represented.
The museum is home to roughly 100
aircraft, with 80 on exhibit in hangars
and about a dozen displayed outside.
Visitors discover over a dozen helicopters, five from the Vietnam era. Among
the 15 to 20 World War II-era aircraft is
a B-29 Superfortress.
Exhibits can change, as there are
always a few in storage or undergoing
restoration.
Tours begin with a brief check in,
then break into small groups, dispers-
New England Air Museum,
Windsor Locksland Air Museum, Windsor Locks
engines.
Tour guide Carl Cruff spent 40 years
working in the aviation industry.
“In most museums, the term interactive means touch screens and audio,”
Cruff said. “There are so many things
a person isn’t allowed to touch. Here
with a docent, people can actually sit
inside the cockpit and put their hands
on the controls. There’s nothing like
that and getting a feel for what the
pilots felt.”
On weekends, visitors can actually
try their hand at the flight simulator.
Reservations for tours are recommended at least two weeks in advance.
A catering option is offered with
advance notice.
Group rates are available and free
parking is provided on-site.S
New England Air Museum
860-623-3305
neam.org
Nov • Dec • Jan
59
Itinerary/
MAINE MAINE
Main Street, Belfast
GO
Belfast
DO
Castine Kayak Adventures
207-866-3506
castinekayak.com
Coast to Island Charters
207-505-1618
sailingmissnina.com
Come Boating!
207-338-3466
comeboating.org
EAT
Chase’s Daily
207-338-0555
Darby’s Restaurant & Pub
207-338-2339
darbysrestaurant.com
SEE
Cold Comfort Theater
207-930-7244
coldcomforttheater.com
Colonial Theatre
207-338-5087
info@colonialtheatre.com
colonialtheater.com
ASK
Belfast Area Chamber of Commerce
207-338-5900
belfastmaine.org
With a wealth of antique architecture
and several historic districts, the seaport
city of Belfast is a must-see stop for groups
traveling along Maine’s coast.
Belfast Area Chamber of Commerce
provided this fun-filled two-day itinerary.
and other specialty foods. Chase’s Daily
features vegetarian cuisine prepared with
produce fresh off its own farm. In season,
the back of the restaurant is filled with
fresh-picked veggies and fresh-baked
breads and pastries.
Take a cruise on one of the several sail
or powerboats that offer short excursions
into the bay. Boats offers morning and
afternoon sails guaranteed to satisfy the
urge to experience Maine’s harbors from
the water. Or schedule a charter sail aboard
Nina, a 61-foot motorsail ketch with Coast
to Island Charters.
Day One
Experience the waterfront by foot and
stroll along the harbor from Heritage Park,
along the newly installed Harbor Walk,
pausing to enjoy any of “Please Be Seated”
artistic benches. Visit the Belfast Historical
Society Museum and take one of the walking tours of Belfast’s
fascinating historic
Day Two
district. Museum in
Want to expethe Streets guides
rience the water
groups through the
powered by the
key historic points
group’s energy? Hop
of interest.
in kayaks and receive
Shop at the
a guided tour of the
many interesting
bay. There’s a trip
locally owned bouto suit every need,
tiques, gift shops,
from beginner to
Waterfront, Belfast
and galleries. Belexpert. Castine Kayak
fast is home to the
Adventures will be
oldest shoe store in the country, Colburn’s
happy to show the group the way. Or, join
Shoe Store, one of the largest and first green
Come Boating! for a community row as a lostores, the well-stocked Belfast Food Co-op,
cal captain pilots the craft through the harbor.
and many other unique specialty stores.
Afterward, relax with a show. The local
Tour more than 20 galleries located
movie house, the Colonial Theatre, presthroughout the downtown district. And
ents the latest movies at the best prices and
don’t miss the other shopping districts. On
it’s all set in a revitalized art deco theater.
Route 3, just to the west of the downtown,
Groups can’t miss it — it’s the building
Reny’s Department Store offers a true
with the elephant on top.
Maine shopping experience.
Looking for live entertainment? Cold
On the east side of town, just across
Comfort Theater offers a varied selection
the bridge and on the way to Bar Harbor,
of community theater productions, both
several unique shops delight. Perry’s Nut
at its waterfront theater and at open-air
House is a must-see-stop that offers countproductions held at Steamboat Landing,
less varieties of candies, amusing displays
one of Belfast’s waterfront parks.
and plenty of giggles. Right next door,
Stop for dinner at one of the restauBennett’s Gems is sure to cast a sparkle in
rants. Darby’s Restaurant & Pub, on High
your eye with its huge selection of gems,
Street, was built in 1865 and has operated
precious stones, and jewelry.
continuously as a bar or restaurant for 140
Have lunch at the local restaurants,
years. Sit at the historic bar and rub elbows
where visitors enjoy delicious seafood, as
with locals and visitors alike. Group reserwell as sandwiches, pizza, Thai, Chinese
vations are suggested.S
Photo: Belfast Area Chamber of Commerce
Photo: Wikipedia/Creative Commons
Shopping and entertainment
enliven Belfast’s coast
60
Winter 2015 •• GroupTour.com
Season
GroupTour.com
MAINE
America’s most popular 19th-century poet, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, wrote fondly of his home town,
Portland, in his poem “My Lost Youth,”
which begins: “Often I think of the
beautiful town ... seated by the sea.”
In another poem, “Keramos,” he
describes his parents’ blue and white
china, which is still in his childhood
home, the Wadsworth-Longfellow
House, in Portland. It’s on display
along with other artifacts and furniture, all of which is almost entirely
original to his family.
His sister, Anne, who lived in the
three-story house until her death
in 1901, bequeathed it to the Maine
Historical Society in her brother’s
memory. It’s now the oldest standing
structure on the Portland peninsula
and the state’s first house museum.
“Henry started writing poetry here
and we know he wrote his poem, ‘The
Rainy Day,’ at this house,” said Kathleen
Photo: Maine Historical Society
tells story of remarkable poet
Wadsworth-Longfellow House, Portland
Neumann, manager of education and
interpretation. “He grew up here, one
of eight children, from infancy to when
he was 14 or 15. He visited the house
throughout his adulthood and it would
continue to be a source of inspiration
for his poetry. He would write poetry
here, essentially, his whole life.”
On 45-minute guided tours, small
groups learn about the WadsworthLongfellow family. There are options
for themed tours on subjects such as
the American Revolution, 19th-century furniture and furnishings, and
food preparation and dining.
For larger groups up to a maximum of 50, tours are self-guided,
open-house style. Visitors are encouraged to spend time in the Colonial
Revival-style garden too.
The house is open May through
October, as well as for special requests outside of the summer, and
for themed tours around Valentine’s
Day, Halloween and the holiday season.
Motorcoaches may drop off and
pick up visitors a half block from the
museum’s front door at the bus stop
outside 511 Congress Street. Groups
are met by a Maine Historical Society
representative.S
207-774-1822, ext. 212
mainehistory.org
Groups journey back in time on the
Katahdin, the last remaining steamboat
on Maine’s Moosehead Lake. “Kate,”
which celebrated its centenary in 2014,
was once one of 50 steamboats that
ferried families seeking fresh air and
sporting opportunities to summer
vacations resorts.
Nowadays, Katahdin Cruises take
groups on three-and-a-half-hour narrated rides around the scenic glacial
lake, or longer trips on Wednesdays to
Mount Kineo, a former resort.
The boat’s capacity is 225 with a
minimum of 30 for group discounts.
“On board, we can cater for lunches
before departing,” said executive director Liz Cannell. “We have a galley, a
small gift shop and tours of the engine
room. Once we reach open water, we allow passengers to come into the wheelhouse and take a turn steering the boat.”
Photo: Katahdin Cruises
Katahdin offers adventures on Moosehead Lake
Katahdin, Moosehead Lake
In the 1930s, when roads became
the primary means of transport in the
region, “Kate” was the only one of its
kind to survive the steamboat decline.
Used to tow rafts, she was later saved
from the scrapheap in the 1970s, becoming the star attraction of Moosehead Marine Museum, a nonprofit
organization in Greenville.
The museum, open during the June
through mid-October season, has more
than 1,700 artifacts and photographs
depicting the history of the area.
Cannell’s father, Richard McKeil, was
part of the original group of locals who
saved the Katahdin. Cannell grew up in
the area and gave tours at age 16, when
her father ran the business. It was a
transformative experience, she revealed.
“I complained I was bored, so he
dragged me down the museum and
made me volunteer and give tours
on the boat. All I can tell you is that I
don’t think anybody rides this boat and
doesn’t fall a little bit it in love with it!”
Motorcoaches park behind Moosehead Marine Museum and discharge
passengers at the nearby wharf.S
Katahdin Cruises
207-695-2716
katahdincruises.com
Nov • Dec • Jan
61
Photo: Jim Higgins, Higgins and Ross
Itinerary/
MASSACHUSETTS
MASSACHUSETTS
Boott Cotton Mills Museum, Lowell
GO
Concord, Lexington
and Concord
EAT
Concord’s Colonial Inn
978-369-9200
concordscolonialinn.com
SEE
Concord Museum
978-369-9763
concordmuseum.org
Lowell National
Historical Park
978-970-5000
nps.gov/lowe
Minute Man
National Historical Park
978-369-6993
nps.gov/mima
STAY
The Inn at Hastings Park
781-301-6660
innathastingspark.com
UMass Lowell Inn
and Conference Center
978-934-6920
acc-umlinnandconferencecenter.com
ASK
Greater Merrimack Valley
800-215-9805
sales@merrimackvalley.org
merrimackvalley.org
Discover America’s story
in Merrimack Valley
From Lexington and Concord, where
the battle for America’s freedom began,
to the 19th-century textile mills lining the
Merrimack River in Lowell, whose workers
and goods gave birth to the United States’
modern economy, the story of the Greater
Merrimack Valley is the story of America.
Courtney O’Malley, sales and marketing
manager at the Greater Merrimack Valley
Convention & Visitors Bureau, shared this
itinerary.
A day in Concord
Start at the Concord Museum, where
the group will see the famous Paul Revere
Lantern and learn about the town’s history.
Just a short walk away, visit Orchard
House, home of Louisa May Alcott, author
of Little Women.
Have lunch in Concord Center at the
historic Concord’s Colonial Inn, or shop
in the town’s many boutiques and stores.
Visit the Old North Bridge where the
famous “shot heard ’round the world” was
fired. View Daniel Chester French’s famous
Minute Man statue.
Walk over to the Old Manse, once home
to authors Henry David Thoreau and Nathaniel Hawthorne.
Finally, stroll around Walden Pond,
where Thoreau wrote Walden. Take a swim
or simply relax and enjoy the natural scenery from Walden’s many hiking trails.
A day in Lexington
Start at the Minute Man National Park
Visitors Center and view a multimedia
presentation depicting life in the town in
the days leading up to April 17, 1775. Walk
in the footsteps of the minutemen on the
Hartwell Interpretive Trail. Stop at the
Hartwell Tavern, where costumed interpreters demonstrate historical crafts.
Enjoy lunch in Lexington’s historic
town center at Lexx Restaurant or Vine
Brook Tavern.
Stroll through the town center and
shop at Crafty Yankee or pick up a gift at
A Pocketful of Posies.
A short walk from the center of town,
the Lexington Battle Green displays the
famous statue of Captain John Parker.
Then journey to the Buckman Tavern for
a guided tour of the meeting place of the
Colonial soldiers.
Between April and October be sure to include the “Liberty Ride,” a 90-minute bus tour
of the key sites of Lexington and Concord
given by a knowledgeable costumed guide.
For overnights, check out The Inn at
Hastings Park, located just steps from the
Battle Green.
Enjoy seasonal New England cuisine
prepared in the inn’s restaurant, Artistry
on the Green.
A day in Lowell
Begin at the Lowell National Historical
Park Visitors Center at Market Mills.
Ask the rangers about the available daily
tours or hop on the park’s trolley and ride
to the Boott Cotton Mills Museum to feel
and hear what it was like to work in a 1920s
weave room with operating power looms.
In the summer months, take a canal
boat ride through the park’s hand-dug
canal system that once powered the mills.
Enjoy lunch at one of Lowell’s excellent
ethnic restaurants or outdoor cafes and then
browse some of the downtown’s shops, including Humanity Boutique for a new outfit,
Tutto Bene for that perfect bottle of wine or
The Brush Art Gallery for a piece of art.
The city offers the American Textile
History Museum, The New England Quilt
Museum, the Arts League of Lowell and the
Whistler House Museum, birthplace of the
famous painter James McNeill Whistler.
Lowell is also the birthplace of the Beat
Generation writer Jack Kerouac. Fans will not
want to miss Kerouac Park. In October there
is the Lowell Celebrates Kerouac Festival.
Wrap up the day at a Lowell Spinners
(Class A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox)
baseball game or take in a Broadway show
or professional theater production at
The Lowell Memorial Auditorium or
Merrimack Reparatory Theatre.
Overnight at a riverfront hotel, the
UMass Lowell Inn and Conference Center.S
62
Season
MASSACHUSETTS
Robert Treat Paine’s legacy lives on at Stonehurst
R
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15– 16
SEASO
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Stonehurst
781-314-3290
info@stonehurstwaltham.org
stonehurstwaltham.org
S
BOST
coming and beautiful, but also healthier
and more environmentally friendly.”
Stonehurst offers groups of eight
or more discounted rates.S
U
of materials, and integration of house,
grounds and interiors anticipate the
unified organic architecture of Frank
Lloyd Wright in the 20th century,” Clifford said. “We want visitors to discover
how nature can be an endless source of
inspiration for everyone’s home. When
homes are attuned to their surroundings, they can be not only more wel-
M
Invisible from the street, The Robert
Treat Paine Estate, also known as
Stonehurst, sits on a secluded hilltop
amid 109 acres of conservation land in
Waltham.
Stonehurst was the country place
of social reformer Robert Treat Paine
(1835-1910) and his family.
“Visitors are surprised to learn that
Mr. Paine would choose to retire at the
young age of 35 to focus on spreading
his wealth for the public good,” said
Ann Clifford, Paine Estate curator.
The estate’s integrated design
crowns the career-long collaboration
of architect Henry Hobson Richardson
and landscape architect Frederick Law
Olmsted. It’s here where Paine’s family
would refuge six months of the year
from urban heat and the Victorian era’s
congestion.
Groups can see the conventionbreaking interiors of Stonehurst, where
Richardson’s flowing spaces combine
rich textures with handcrafted details.
october 1 , 2015– april 23, 2016
bso.org
Photo: J. David Bohl, City of Waltham
YOUR GROUP
OUR GREAT RATE
SPRING 2016
AMERICA’S FAVORITE ORCHESTRA
americas favorite orchestra
Great Hall, Stonehurst, Waltham
“Visitors love the warmth and
hominess of the natural wood interiors, filled with handcrafted carvings
and details,” Clifford said. “A favorite
artifact is the door, where generations
of growing children proudly penciled
in their height.”
And outside, groups can experience Olmsted’s naturalistic approach
to landscape design. Woodland trails
connect the Storer Conservation lands
to the Western Greenway.
“We want visitors to discover Richardson, one of America’s greatest architects, whose bold planning, mastery
SU M M E R 20 16
B O STO N SYM P H O N Y O RC H ESTRA
ANDRIS NELSONS MUSIC DIRECTOR
tanglewood.org
For group reservations, call 800-933-4255
or email groupsales@bso.org
Hospitality
Partners:
official hotel
official chauffeured
transportation provider
official airline
Nov • Dec • Jan
63
BeauportPrincess-CapeAnnCCAd_Layout 1 9/24/15
MASSACHUSETTS
BEAUPORT
PRINCESS
CRUISELINES
6 Rowe Square
Gloucester, MA 01930
(978) 865-3210
beauportprincess.com
Experience the luxury of the Beauport
Princess. Enjoy a scrumptious lunch,
dinner, lobster bake or Sunday Jazz
cruise around historic and beautiful
Gloucester Harbor. Every cruise
includes entertainment! Handicap
accessible. Free parking.
A key attraction in Boylston, Tower
Hill Botanic Garden welcomes visitors to
its 132-acre garden paradise year-round.
Distinct gardens change with the
season and include The Entry Garden
and Court, The Lawn Garden, The
Secret Garden, The Cottage Garden,
The Vegetable Garden, The Inner Park,
The Limonaia, The Orangerie, The
Systematic Garden, The Winter Garden, The Frank L. Harrington Orchard,
The Wildlife Garden and The Wildlife
Refuge Pond.
Whether groups are welcomed by a
field of more than 25,000 spring daffodils or participate in apple tastings in the
fall “Shades of Autumn” harvest celebration, no two visits are ever the same.
Based on the needs and interests of
the group, both self-guided and guided
tours are available at Tower Hill. Self-
Photo: Tower Hill Botanic Garden
Tower Hill Botanic Garden
showcases seasonal landscapes
Tower Hill Botanic Garden, Boylston
guided tours are free and allow visitors
to explore the gardens using maps and
signage located throughout the grounds.
Alternately, guided tours are available for an additional rate of $100 per
guide. Tower Hill recommends one
tour guide per 25 individuals. Tours
John F. Kennedy
Presidential Library
and Museum
Columbia Point, Boston
Group Reservations
jfklibrary.org/visit/group-visits
617.514.1589
1.866.JFK.1960 x41589
E XPERIENCE JFK’S LIFE, LE ADERSHIP AND LEGACY
64
JFK1333Mv6X_ Group Tour Ad.indd 1
9/14/15 9:07 AM
MASSACHUSETTS
Tower Hill Botanic Garden
508-869-6111
towerhillbg.org
Photo: Tower Hill Botanic Garden
typically last between 45 minutes to an
hour and run rain or shine.
Groups may dine a la carte at Twigs
Café, or pre-order box lunches.
Discounted general admission is available for groups of 10 or more guests.
Group admission must be paid in one
transaction using one form of payment.S
Arbor, Tower Hill Botanic Garden, Boylston
Nov • Dec • Jan
65
Snowshoeing, Waterville Valley
GO
Conway, Hanover, Laconia,
Lincoln, New London,
North Woodstock, Thornton
and Waterville Valley
DO
Appalachian Mountain Club
amc-nh.org
Loon Mountain Adventure Center
603-745-6281, ext. 5539
loonmtn.com/plan/groups
Valley Snow Dogz
603-340-2390
valleysnowdogz.com
SIP
The Flying Goose Brew Pub & Grille
603-526-6899
flyinggoose.com
Pine Restaurant
603-646-8000
pineathanoverinn.com
Woodstock Inn Station & Brewery
603-745-3951
woodstockinnnh.com
Tuckerman Brewing Company
603-447-5400
tuckermanbrewing.com
SEE
Hood Museum of Art
603-646-1469
hoodmuseum.dartmouth.edu
ASK
New Hampshire Division of Travel
and Tourism Development
603-271-2665
traveltrade@dred.nh.gov
visitnh.gov
66 Season
Sip brews in wintry
New Hampshire
Alongside scores of winter wonders,
challenge the group to new adventures
throughout central New Hampshire. And
then celebrate with a glass (or two) of New
Hampshire’s very own handcrafted brews
and delectable New England inspired culinary traditions.
The New Hampshire Division of Travel
and Tourism Development provided this
four-day itinerary.
to stop at The Flying Goose Brew Pub &
Grille to taste the pub’s microbrews and
take in scenic views of Mount Kearsarge.
Day Three
Wake up with a waffle or pancake
breakfast served by Kellerhaus, New
Hampshire’s oldest chocolate maker. Follow breakfast with a chocolate-making
workshop, where groups can make their
own sweet treats for later.
Day One
Head north to Waterville Valley,
Enter New Hampshire through Hawhere groups are introduced to a team of
nover, home of Dartmouth College. This
Alaskan, Hedlund and Siberian huskies at
quaint historic town encompasses the
Valley Snow Dogz dog sledding. Experience
perfect amount of New England charm,
firsthand how dog sledding works.
providing a variety of
Farther north, tour
activities to capture
the Woodstock Inn
the group’s attention.
Station & Brewery for
Start the day off at
a splendid sampling
the Hood Museum of
of freshly crafted ales
Art to view masterand beers followed
pieces from one of
by an early dinner in
the largest and oldest
their cozy restaurant
university collecto enjoy the hometions in the country.
town atmosphere.
Then take a stroll
End the night at Indown Main Street to
dian Head Resort with
Valley Snow Dogz, Thornton
explore a variety of
live entertainment.
boutiques and cafes.
Journey back to the Hanover Inn for a
Day Four
one-of-a-kind farm-to-table dining experiStart the day on a cross-country skiing
ence at Pine Restaurant, which includes a
adventure guided by the Loon Mountain
presentation by their acclaimed mixologist.
Adventure Center. Ski along the Pemigewasset River and experience the snowDay Two
covered beauty of the White Mountain
Get an early start with a fresh, locally
National Forest.
gourmet cup of coffee from Dirt Cowboy
Grab lunch at the historic Omni Mount
Café, and/or enjoy a fresh baked pastry
Washington Resort, a favorite vacation desfrom Umpleby’s Bakery and Café. Enjoy
tination of many United States presidents,
a morning of snowshoeing, sightseeing
poets and celebrities.
and exploring the backcountry along the
After lunch, meet up with an adventure
Appalachian Trail, accompanied by an
guide for a canopy tour adventure susexperienced Appalachian Mountain Club
pended over Bretton Woods and cascading
guide. Leave from downtown Hanover;
through treetops, giving the group a bird’ssnowshoes and poles are provided. Don’t
eye view of scenic Rosebrook Canyon.
forget to bring packed lunches, courtesy of
Finish the day with a stop at Tuckerman’s
the Hanover Inn.
Brewing Co. to sample some of the unique
Head farther into New Hampshire
and creative brews.S
Photo: New Hampshire Division of Travel & Tourism
Photo: New Hampshire Division of Travel & Tourism
Itinerary/
NEW HAMPSHIRE
NEW HAMPSHIRE
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Currier Museum of Art displays
American and European works
Photo: Currier Museum of Art
A tour of the Currier Museum of
Art in Manchester is a journey through
the history of art.
“We have a wide range of American
and European art dating to the preRenaissance, the late 14th century, right
up to today,” said Megan McIntyre, the
Currier’s tour programs administrator.
“I love how representative the collection is.”
Highlights include early religious art,
a John Constable landscape painting, a
Henri Matisse bronze and a large, colorful post-Cubist painting by Pablo Picasso.
Works by American artists Edward Hopper, Georgia O’Keeffe, Mark
Rothko and Alexander Calder also are
represented, in addition to works from
19th-century painters.
Photo: Currier Museum of Art
Zimmerman House, Currier Museum of Art, Manchester
Currier Museum of Art, Manchester
“We have an early Monet in our
European Gallery,” McIntyre said. “And
it’s very interesting to see early Impressionism at work in his piece, but the
colors aren’t yet at that more vibrant
level. It’s a wonderful piece.”
Claude Monet painted The Seine at
Bougival in 1869 at the age of 29.
Hour-long group tours can be customized to go deeper into the works of
special exhibitions and topics, such as
women in art.
“On our popular highlights of the
collection tour, we can really work our
way through the periods of art history
in a very smooth and linear way, with a
few examples from each period, which
is a real treat,” McIntyre said.
The museum’s original 1929 building
and more recent extensions are in a residential area, with a drop-off circle for
motorcoaches at the main entrance with
generous space for on-street parking.
In addition to the Currier itself, visitors can be taken 2 miles north by the
museum’s own transport in groups of
13 or less to tour its largest object, the
Zimmerman House. The 1,600-squarefoot former private residence, designed
by Frank Lloyd Wright, is maintained
according to his detailed plans.
“It’s from Wright’s Usonian period,
and it’s a very personal house sized just
for a couple,” McIntyre said. “It strikes
a chord with people because it really
does embody that beautiful mid-century design, in addition to all of Wright’s
principles.”S
Currier Museum of Art
603-669-6144, ext. 113
currier.org
THE MOUNT WASHINGTON
an AMAZING
ADVENTURE to the top
of NEW ENGLAND’S HIGHEST PEAK!
•
•
•
3-hr. round trip on eco-friendly biodiesel or steam trains
World’s 1st & only mtn-climbing cog RR east of Rockies!
Free admission to the Observatory Museum at the summit
BASE STATION RD, MARSHFIELD STATION, NH
thecog.com 603-278-5550 OPEN MAY-NOV
Nov • Dec • Jan
67
Shops, historic Federal Hill, Providence
GO
Block Island, Newport
and Providence
DO
La Gondola
401-421-8877
gondolari.com
EAT
Savoring Federal Hill
800-656-0713
savoringrhodeisland.com
Spirito’s Restaurant
401-434-4435
spiritosrestaurant.com
Tap & Grille
The National Hotel
401-466-2901
nationalri.com/tapandgrille
SEE
The Breakers
401-847-1000
newportmansions.org
International Tennis Hall of Fame
401-849-3990
tennisfame.com
ASK
Providence Warwick
401-456-0241
goprovidence.com/group-tour
Federal Hill Commerce Association
401-432-7783
federalhillprov.com
Island and city adventures
await in Rhode Island
Feel the combination of a small-town
atmosphere with the sophistication of a big
city in Rhode Island’s neighboring hotspots.
A thriving arts community, diverse
neighborhoods and renowned culinary options make Providence “the creative capital,”
and its proximity to Newport and Block Island make the perfect tour. The Providence
Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau
provided this two-night, three-day itinerary.
the three rivers of downtown Providence.
Visit the Rhode Island State House for
a tour. Learn more about the history of
Rhode Island and the design of its spectacular state Capitol, also home of the fourth
largest, self-supporting dome in the world.
Day Two
Newport
Best known as the “city by the sea,”
Newport is home to spectacular coastal
Day One
scenery, awe-inspiring architecture and a
Providence
thriving downtown waterfront.
Upon arriving in Providence, be treated
The Breakers is the grandest of Newto a meet-and-greet welcome reception
port’s summer “cottages” and a symbol of
at the group’s hotel with a member of the
the Vanderbilt family’s social and financial
Providence Warwick
preeminence in
Convention & VisiAmerica’s glorious
tors Bureau staff.
Gilded Age.
Have lunch and
Stop at the
watch a tableside
International Tennis
culinary demonstraHall of Fame. Built
tion on Federal Hill.
in 1880 by the firm
Enjoy a fabulous
of McKim, Mead and
dinner at one of the
White, the museum’s
many restaurants
galleries chronicle the
on Federal Hill,
rich history of tennis.
Providence skyline viewed from a gondola,
Providence River
Providence’s famed
Move on to relax
“Little Italy.”
at Newport VineFor dessert, try a behind-the-scenes
yards for a winery tour and tasting. It may
bakery tour. In the heart of Federal Hill,
come as a surprise that little Rhode Island
the group can observe cake decorating
is big on wine. It’s made from grapes suited
and the art of pastry making. Indulge in
to the soil and climatic conditions existing
scrumptious samplings.
along the rugged Rhode Island coast.
Does the group prefer a more active
Enjoy free time to explore Newport
culinary treat? Try a culinary walking
Harbor and have dinner. Stroll the historic
tour with Savoring Federal Hill. Savor
waterfront wharves lined with antique
the samples, meet the chefs, and see
stores, art galleries, resort clothing shops,
the butchers, bakers and ravioli makers.
restaurants and specialty shops.
After lunch, meet with a step-on guide
to find out why Providence is a preferred
Day Three
city. Enjoy a one-hour narrated tour of
Block Island
historic Providence.
Meet at the ferry landing in Point Judith
Enjoy dinner at Spirito’s Restaurant. It’s
and be escorted to the island by ferry. Each
owned and operated by brothers David and
group member will receive souvenirs and a
Gregory Spirito, who have been preparing and
complimentary beverage aboard the ferry.
serving delicious food for the past 30 years.
Enjoy a guided island tour, followed
After dinner, get in an authentic Veneby a lobster lunch at Tap & Grille, on the
tian Gondola and float leisurely through
porch of The National Hotel.S
Photo: Nicholas Millard/GoProvidence.com
Photo: Nicholas Millard/GoProvidence.com
Itinerary/
ISLAND
RHODE RHODE
ISLAND
68
Season
RHODE ISLAND
Train serves as nostalgia machine
All aboard for a trip around the bay.
ing this ride.
Take a step back in time to the 1950s,
Hop on Rhode Island’s only moving
traveling on one of Newport and Narraice cream parlor. Newport and Nargansett Bay Railroad Company’s trains.
ragansett Bay Railroad Company’s Ice
Groups can wine, dine and ride in the
Cream Train is quite the treat. Groups
grand tradition of the “streamliner.”
are able to ride in a classic, 1950s
Starting in Newport, all of the train
streamlined Budd RDC train car, while
tours take
snaking on a
groups around
sundae of their
Aquidneck
own making.
Island. Groups
“Our tour
are able to view
trains travel
Narragansett
about 8 to 10
Bay while
miles round
indulging in
trip,” said
lunch, dinner
Eric Moffet,
or dessert.
president and
The Grand
owner. “The
Bellevue, the
luncheon train
company’s
is about 12
flagship train,
miles round
offers elegant
trip. And
The Ice Cream Train, Newport
lunches and
The Grand
dinners. Both
Bellevue goes
menus feature all natural, locally
about 16 miles round trip. Although
sourced, seasonal dishes. Indulge in the
this may not seem like a lot, if you have
classic dining car setting while scenes
ever experienced traffic congestion in
of Narragansett Bay at sunset roll by.
Newport in the summer, you’ll know
Vegetarian, gluten-free and vegan opthis is a long way.”
tions are available.
Along the way, while passing the
A less formal option is The AquidNewport Naval Station, bays and marineck Island Rail Tour. This late mornnas, staff will inform groups about what
ing or midday getaway carries groups
they are seeing and the history of the
by the bay and through Newport Naval
island. Moffet hopes to expand the preStation. Lunch options are served dursentation within the next couple of years.
Motorcoach parking is available
at the visitor’s center next to the train
station.S
Newport and Narragansett Bay
Railroad Co.
401- 295-1203
trainsri.com
Newport Mansions
Sights & Sounds
Photo: N & NB PR
®
Marble House
“Go back in
time…If you
enjoy Downton
Abbey, this is
your place.”
Trip Advisor
Traveler Review
Consuelo Vanderbilt
Come visit Marble House, where the
Duke of Marlborough met his future
Duchess, Consuelo Vanderbilt.
Photo: N & NB PR
401-847-2251 • Groups@NewportMansions.org
Newport, Rhode Island
The Grand Bellevue, Newport
Christmas At The
Newport Mansions
Nov. 21 – Jan. 3, 2016
®
Decorated in Yuletide Finery!
w w w . NewportMansions . o r g
Nov • Dec • Jan
69
Photo: VermontVacation.com
Itinerary/
VERMONT
VERMONT
Athenian Hall, Old Stone House Museum,
Brownington
GO
Ferrisburgh, Middlebury,
Orleans and Windsor
SEE
Alexander Twilight Hall,
Middlebury College
middlebury.edu
Old Constitution House
802-674-6628
Old Stone House Museum
802-754-2022
oldstonehousemuseum.org
Rokeby Museum
802-877-3406
rokeby.org
ASK
The Vermont Department
of Tourism & Marketing
800-837-6668
vermontvacation.com
Explore Vermont’s
African-American heritage trail
Among Vermont’s early settlers were
African-Americans who tilled the land,
built homes and fought in the Revolutionary War.
This itinerary provided by The Vermont
Department of Tourism & Marketing
explores the lives and stories of Vermonters whose work focused on equality and
freedom. Combine these stops for a one- or
two-day trip.
Rokeby Museum
Ferrisburgh
Described as “unrivaled” by the National Park Service, Rokeby Museum is a
National Historic Landmark and preeminent Underground Railroad site.
The “Free and Safe: The Underground
Railroad in Vermont” exhibit introduces
visitors to Simon and Jesse, two historically
documented fugitives from slavery who
were sheltered at Rokeby in the 1830s. The
exhibit traces their stories from slavery to
freedom, introduces the abolitionist Robinson family who called Rokeby home for
nearly 200 years and explores the turbulent
decades leading up to the Civil War.
Once a thriving Merino sheep farm,
Rokeby retains eight historic farm buildings filled with agricultural artifacts, along
with old wells, stone walls and fields. Acres
of pastoral landscape invite a leisurely
stroll or a hike up the trail. Picnic tables are
available for outdoor dining.
Alexander Twilight Hall,
Middlebury College
Middlebury
Middlebury College is home to a number
of first academic achievements for AfricanAmericans. Just four years after its founding
in 1800, Middlebury College awarded an
honorary masters degree to the Rev. Lemuel
Hayes, an African-American who would
later serve as a minister in Rutland for 30
years. In 1823, Rev. Alexander Twilight,
later to become the first African-American
elected as a state legislator, was the first
African-American to earn a degree from
an American college or university. In 1986,
Middlebury College renamed one of its
buildings Alexander Twilight Hall in honor
of the educator, minister and politician.
Old Stone House Museum
Brownington
Located in Vermont’s rural Northeast
Kingdom, the Old Stone House Museum
is the site of Alexander Twilight’s home,
school, church and the stately granite
building he built to house students at the
Brownington Academy. With buildings
dating from 1830 to 1848, the museum is
located in the Brownington Village Historic
District, where Twilight’s dormitory, Athenian Hall, dominates the landscape that
looks much the same as it did 150 years
ago.
Old Constitution House
Windsor
The first constitution in America to
prohibit slavery was adopted in a tavern
in Vermont in 1777. A forward-thinking
product of its time, freedom was promised
for men beyond age 20 and women beyond
age 17.
Written for the newly formed Republic
of Vermont, the constitution also was the
first to allow men to vote without requiring property ownership and to authorize a
public school system. The document would
guide Vermont for 14 years until 1791,
when the Republic was admitted to the
Union as the 14th state.
Today called the “Birthplace of Vermont,” the restored tavern building looks
much as it did more than 200 years ago. An
exhibit recounts the writing of the most
progressive constitution of its time and
examines its effect on the politics of the
young nation.S
70
Season
VERMONT
Photo: Courtesy of Lake Champlain Chocolates
factory tour offers sweet treats
Tour, Lake Champlain Chocolates, Burlington
Photo: Courtesy of Lake Champlain Chocolates
At the Lake Champlain Chocolates factory in Burlington,
Fitzpatrick, public relations manager of the company. “Our
the scent of chocolate wafting in the air welcomes groups with
popular, through-the-window view of the factory gives groups
the promise of fun ahead.
an up-close look where we craft our signature confections. It’s
The company produces truffles, caramels, almond butter
an experience everyone enjoys.”
crunch toffee and other
On weekends, the comdelectable delights in its
pany offers free chocolate
24,000-square-foot factastings from 11 a.m. to 4
tory.
p.m.
Founded in 1983 by
Buses can park in the
Ice House restauranteur
back of the parking lot.
Jim Lampman, who
For real chocoholics,
challenged his pastry chef
book a private chocolate
to make a better candy,
bar-making class at South
the company continues
End Kitchen, the comto pursue the fine art of
pany’s culinary center next
chocolate confections.
door. Classes range from
Weekday factory
bar-making to beer and
tours feature a throughchocolate tastings to chocthe-window look at the
olate-themed chef dinners.
entire chocolate-making
Reservations and advanced
process with free samples
payment are required.
to satisfy one’s sweet
Today, Lake Champlain
tooth. The tour is seated,
Chocolates has three comChocolate class, Lake Champlain Chocolates, Burlington
so there is no walking
pany stores in Burlington,
involved.
along with a cafe that serves
Group tours run from mid-June to mid-October and last
weekend brunch, lunch or dinner.S
about half an hour. There is no cost for the tour, but group
reservations are necessary and limited to 35 people.
“Our personable, knowledgeable guides will share where
802-264-2148, tour reservations
chocolate comes from, how it’s made and the different fla802-864-1808, ext. 5102, classes
vor profiles of milk, dark and white chocolate,” said Meghan
lakechamplainchocolates.com
Nov • Dec • Jan
71
VERMONT
Hikers, Merck Forest and Farmland Center, Rupert
Much of the experience is outdoors
and visitors are encouraged to dress
for the weather and wear comfortable
walking shoes. A gravel path connects
the Joy Green Visitor Center and the
Farmland Center. Carll estimates the
walk takes about five minutes.
Photo: Melissa Carll
The Merck Forest and Farmland
Center is located in Rupert, just 12
miles off U.S. Route 7 — one of the
main north-south corridors in western
Vermont. Operating as an educational
nonprofit organization, the 3,100-acre
property features a managed forest, a
certified organic maple sugaring operation and a 62-acre working farm.
“We’re different from attractions like Gatlinburg and the Great
Smoky Mountains,” said Melissa Carll,
communications coordinator. “The
Farmland Center is our main attraction and we offer on-site demonstrations, workshops, apprenticeships, and
a variety of recreation and volunteer
opportunities.”
Tours are self-guided and guests
can participate in activities such as
picking seasonal berries and observing
the annual maple sap harvest.
“We sell our maple syrup, pork,
lamb and berries in the small store
located inside the Joy Green Visitor
Center,” Carll said. “Guests will also
find information on the park’s network of trails and other gift items, like
guide books and local artwork.”
Photo: Melissa Carll
Explore Merck Forest and Farmland Center
Summer concert, Sap House pasture lawn, Merck Forest and Farmland Center, Rupert
72
Carll recommends a minimum
one-hour visit to the Farmland
Center, with additional time allotted
for groups interested in picnicking,
attending a demonstration or presentation, or more extensively touring the
gardens and grounds.
is open year-round.
“Merck Forest is a popular wintertime cross-country skiing and snowshoeing destination, but we recommend
large vehicles wait to visit until after the
spring thaw, in the summer months,
and during peak fall foliage,” Carll said.
Admission is free for self-guided
tours, but groups may be charged a fee
for specific tours or workshops that
require additional staffing or materials. Please make group reservations at
least two weeks in advance.
Passengers are welcome to load and
unload in the circle drive in front of
the Joy Green Visitor Center; motorcoaches must park in the lot to the
right of the main drive.S
802-394-7836
merckforest.org
0915VTNPrintAd.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/15 7:17 AM Page 1
VERMONT
Plan Your next tour to Vermont
GrouP tour manual and Vermonttourismnetwork.com
Your one-stop resource for new Vermont destinations for every tour:
• Statewide destinations
• Agriculture, arts & culture, attractions, historic sites, lodging,
restaurants, shopping, special events, unique experiences and more
• Group tours, student groups, family reunions and FIT
50 NEW rooms!
Near Manchester, VT
802-824-6941
Lodgeatbromley.com
Vermont Tour & Receptive Operators/Step On Guides:
in partnership with
Custom Tours: 802-882-8475, linda@customtoursinc.com
Finer Vermont Tours: 800-601-1857, finer@vermontel.net
Notch Above Tours: 802-881-0661, info@notchabovetours.com
Sugar Tours: 888-889-8681, vttours@sover.net
Charters: Premier Coach: 800-532-1811, info@premiercoach.net
For a FREE printed tour manual, call 802-262-2129 or email kballard@vtchamber.com
Hampton Inn
& Event Center
Burlington ~ Colchester
• Newly renovated
• Microwave and mini-fridge
• Indoor heated saltwater pool
• Hampton Hot Breakfast Buffet
• Full service Vermont Event Center
• Earn Hhonors rewards
• Free motorcoach parking
42 Lower Mountain View Drive
Colchester, Vermont 05446
802-655-6177
burlington.hamptoninn.com
Visit Our Stores
FOR LIFE thE way yOu REmEmbER!
When The VeRMonT CounTRy SToRe opened in 1946,
it was the first restored rural general store in the nation. It looks very much the same
today, and is stocked to the rafters with thousands of practical and hard-to-find goods.
Leave the hustle and bustle behind and take a leisurely stroll down memory lane as you discover
delectable Vermont cheeses, rows of jars filled with penny candy, and such brands from the
past as Tangee® Lipstick, Buster Brown Socks, and Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots® Game.
New England is our specialty since 1994.
We live it, we breathe it, we know it inside out!
Our Priorities:
• 100% customized packages
• Safety and attention to detail
• Unsurpassed customer service
• Exclusive tour components
• Our extraordinary local guides
linda@customtoursinc.com
customtoursinc.com • 802.882.8475
Shopping will make you hungry, so don’t miss our Bryant House Restaurant for lunch
and dinner or Mildred’s Dairy Bar for a quick bite.
the Bryant house restaurant mildred’s snack Bar
OpEn 11am-9pm SummER/ FaLL
OpEn 11am-3:30pm wIntER/ SpRIng
Weston
657 Main St • Route 100
OpEn SEaSOnaLLy
rockingham
1292 Rockingham Rd • Route 103
in southern vermont • free parking • no admission • open 7 days a week
Reservations not required, but they help us to personally greet your group.
802.824.3184 • VermontCountryStore.Com
Nov • Dec • Jan
73
MID-ATLANTIC Region
Photo: Rusty Kennedy, Valley Forge CVB
Unique shops,
Skippack, Pa.
Valley Forge
History, shopping and fun activities engage groups
in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania
By Kath Usitalo
The winter of 1777–78 was a difficult test for the
Continental Army.
Encamped at Valley Forge, 20 miles northwest of
the British-occupied Philadelphia, General George
Washington’s 12,000 men had battled with skill,
but had met with defeat. At Valley Forge, they were
forced to improvise in finding provisions and to fight
sickness; almost 2,000 men died that season, most of
various diseases.
With the aid of Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben, a
former member of the army of the King of Prussia, however, Washington was able to pull his troops
through that winter and emerge as a more professional, disciplined and unified army that he would
lead into success on the battlefield.
Valley Forge National Historical Park tells the
story of sacrifice, determination and spirit that
earned this Revolutionary War-era site the designation, “birthplace of the U.S. Army.”
74
“The perception of Valley Forge is that it was a
battlefield, but it was an encampment and a small
city,” said Jeffery Yau, tourism sales manager for the
Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board.
Its pastoral 3,500 acres of rolling terrain are dotted with re-created examples of the 2,000 wooden
huts that the soldiers built for their housing, and
the original stone house that General Washington
used for his headquarters has been restored and
furnished.
There are statues and monuments throughout
the park, but it can be difficult to visualize what Valley Forge was like nearly 240 years ago, Yau said.
He recommends that groups enhance their drivethrough tour with a National Park Service step-on
guide, or a Colonial-garbed guide that can be booked
through Yau. His office can also arrange for George
Washington to meet the group during the typical
two-hour Valley Forge visit.
MIDATLANTIC
Region
“Adult groups want to do something more engaging than just the tour, and George Washington is
phenomenal,” Yau said.“Valley Forge is the centerpiece of our area. When meeting with tour operators,
it starts the conversation. I explain that there’s more
to do — there are reasons to spend more time here.”
More delights for groups
Many groups are discovering new attractions like
Colebrookdale Railroad, a scenic, 8½-mile outing
that follows the post-Civil War railway line on regularly scheduled or charter excursions.
Another option is the American Treasure Tour.
Atlantic
Ocean
Pennsylvania
New Jersey
General George Washington
interpreter, Memorial Arch,
Valley Forge National Historical Park, Pa.
“The American Treasure Tour is a
100,000-square-foot facility filled with one man’s
collection of Americana,” Yau said. “An electric tram
takes you down memory lane. It’s been a really big
hit with groups — and it’s only open to groups right
now. It’s something you have to see.”
To thank tour operators, “We provide small gifts
to every group overnighting in the area, something
useful to commemorate their time here such as pens
and luggage grabbers,” Yau said. “For groups staying
for the first time in the area we offer a free guided
tour — we cover the cost of the step-on guide at
Valley Forge Park.”
He offers sample itineraries as a starting point for
customizing a visit, depending on time and interest.
“Most tour operators pair Valley Forge with a visit
to Philadelphia and Independence Hall and the National Constitution Center,” he said. “I want to spread
the word that there is so much more we can do.”
Admission to Valley Forge National Historic Park
is free.
For step-on guide information, tour fees and reservations through the National Park Service, contact
the Valley Forge Encampment Store.
Buses may drop off and pick up passengers in
front of the Valley Forge Visitor Center, but all buses
must leave the area while waiting for groups. Motorcoach parking is in the lower parking lot.S
Photo: Jonathan Kolbe, Valley Forge CVB
Shopping
One of those reasons is King of Prussia Mall, the
largest shopping center on the East Coast. With more
than 400 stores, 40 dining options and discounts for
groups, it’s an attractive destination for a few hours
or an entire day.
Nicely complementing that name-brand shopping experience are the small towns that dot Montgomery County (called “Montco”). Charming Skippack Village maintains its quaintness by forbidding
chain stores and restaurants; all of the businesses
along the main street, the 1700s Skippack Pike, are
locally owned.
New York
Delaware
Maryland
Washington, D.C.
Delaware
p.76
Maryland
p.78
New Jersey
p.81
New York
p.84
Pennsylvania
p.90
Washington,
D.C.
p.94
Photo: Valley Forge CVB
Valley Forge Encampment Store
610-783-1074
tours@encampmentstore.org
encampmentstore.org
General George Washington’s
stone headquarters building,
Valley Forge, Pa.
Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board
800-441-3549, ext. 7981
tours@valleyforge.org
valleyforge.org
Nov
• Dec••Mon
Jan
Mon
• Mon
75
75
Itinerary/
DELAWARE
DELAWARE
Du Pont Home & Gardens,
Hagley Museum & Library, Wilmington
GO
Newark, Wilmington
and Winterthur
DO
Delaware Park
800-355-7636
delawarepark.com
SEE
Hagley Museum & Library
302-658-2400
askhagley@hagley.org
hagley.org
Historic New Castle
historicnewcastlealliance@gmail.com
historicnewcastle.com
Read House & Gardens
302-295-3284
Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library
800-448-3883
grouptours@winterthur.org
winterthur.org
SHOP
Christiana Mall
302-731-9815
christianamall.com
ASK
Visit Delaware
302-672-6834
visitdelaware.com
Day Two
Visit the charming home of E. I. du
Pont (1771–1834), founder of the DuPont
Company. Built in 1802–1803, the home is
a charming Georgian-style residence with
an adjoining 19th-century potager garden. The estate is part of Hagley Museum
& Library, located on 235 acres along the
Brandywine River.
Spend some time in the Hagley Store.
It features a unique selection of books, gifts
and children’s items for the season.
Travel 2 miles to Winterthur Museum,
Day One
Garden & Library. It is the former home of
Visit the Read House & Gardens in
Henry Francis du Pont (1880–1969),
Historic New Castle. Built in 1801 by the
an avid antiques collector and horticulturson of one of Delaware’s signers of the
ist. In the early 20th century, du Pont and
Declaration of
his father, Henry
Independence and
Algernon du Pont,
the Constitution,
designed Winterit was the largest
thur in the spirit of
house in Delaware
18th- and 19that that time with
century European
22 rooms. The
country houses.
house combined
Enjoy a light
innovative Federal
lunch at the Garden
period design and
Cafeteria and shop
advanced technoat the Winterthur
logical systems.
store. Venture to
Formal gardens
Rockwood MuJessop’s Tavern, Historic New Castle
were installed
seum, a Gothic
outside the home
revival mansion and
in 1848, which continue to delight today’s
English landscape garden built by Joseph
visitors.
Shipley, a Quaker merchant banker, from
Stretch your legs and enjoy the shops in
1851 to 1854.
Historic New Castle. This Colonial city has
Enjoy a tour and show at the Playhouse on
a common green area, river walk, cobbleRodney Square. The Playhouse is the oldest
stone streets and many historic buildings.
continually operating theater in the nation.
Briefly the capital of Delaware, New Castle
It is located in the luxurious Hotel du Pont.
was the original Penn’s Landing.
Indulge in a steak and wine dinner.
Day Three
Delaware Park features racing, slots and
Swing by the Christiana Mall to experisports betting. It was designed by William
ence Delaware’s finest tax-free shopping
du Pont Jr. in 1937 and was later transbefore departing for home. Christiana Mall
ferred to William Rickman. Delaware Park
offers more than 130 sought-after stores,
is the area’s best gaming and entertainment
including Apple, Coach, Banana Republic,
experience. Group party packages are availLucky Brand Jeans, Ann Taylor, Talbots/Talable for any size group, featuring meals
bots Petites, Pottery Barn Kids and Williams
from gourmet dining to picnics in the park.
Sonoma.S
New Castle County is the northernmost
of the three Delaware counties, and the
most populous. Wilmington, the largest
city in Delaware, dates to the 1600s and is
on the site of Fort Christina, the first Swedish settlement in North America.
The area is home to some of the United
States’ most significant historic homes,
where group tours are welcome. The Delaware Tourism Office provided this threeday itinerary filled with stops at grand
estates.
Photo: VisitDelaware.com
Photo: VisitDelaware.com
Escape to Delaware’s grand estates
76
Season
DELAWARE
Wealthy businessman Alfred I. du
Pont was enamored with his second wife
Alicia. He showered her with gifts of
great expense throughout their marriage. Du Pont’s most impressive gift still
stands tall, nestled just outside of Wilmington: Nemours Mansion & Gardens.
“There’s a series of museums in
the Brandywine Valley, and Nemours
is an absolute jewel in the crown of
Delaware’s golden mile of museums
and gardens,” said Steve Maurer, public
relations and marketing manager.
Carre Hastings, a prestigious New
York architectural firm, designed the late
18th-century neoclassical style abode as
a node to du Pont’s French heritage.
There are more than 70 rooms in
Nemours, adding up to a square acre of
floor space in the mansion. However,
the guided mansion tour does not go
Photo: Nemours Mansion and Gardens
Experience the extravagance
of Nemours Mansion & Gardens
Achievement statue,
Nemour’s Mansion and Gardens, Wilmington
through all of the rooms. Groups see
exactly how it was when the du Ponts
lived there, learning about the wealthy
residents and their lifestyle. Take time to
admire the artwork, décor and architecture that make Nemours so extravagant.
“You can be absolutely mesmerized,” Maurer said. “You have to remind
yourself that this was built as a home,
not a museum.”
The guided mansion tour includes a
walk through the garden, but there is a
separate self-guided garden tour option
for those who wish to remain outdoors.
In Nemours’ golden age, du Pont
owned 3,000 acres of land. Now, in
2015, the mansion retains 270 acres.
Nemours grandiose style extends to the
Versailles inspired gardens.
“Nemours is one of the finest examples of formal French gardening in
North America,” said Maurer.
Motorcoach parking is available.S
Nemours Mansion & Gardens
302-651-6913
nemoursmansion.org
The Nanticoke count themselves
among the first people of The First
State. They celebrate their culture at
the only Native American museum
in Delaware — the Nanticoke Indian
Museum in Millsboro.
Groups of up to 50 can take an
hour-and-a-half tour of the museum’s
two rooms. The first room includes
handmade objects such as arrowheads,
baskets, ax hammers and beadwork,
as well as a gift shop.
The second room is divided into
different periods and has artifacts
dating back to the Paleo era.
Museum coordinators June Robbins
and Sterling Street lead tours.
Robbins is married to former Nanticoke Indian Chief Herman Robbins.
She tells the story of her great-grandfather, Isaac Harmon, who owned the
land where the museum stands.
“He had 1,000 acres of land and if it
Photo: Nanticoke Indian Tribe
narrates culture, history and heritage
Ceremony, Nanticoke Indian Powwow, Millsboro
wasn’t for him, the museum wouldn’t be
here today,” said Robbins, who goes by
her Native American name, Morningstar.
The museum opened in 1984 in a
former school built for the Nanticoke
in 1921. It’s now a National Historic
Landmark.
The tribe’s original name means
“tidewater people,” as they were farmers rather than warriors and lived off
the Nanticoke River that flows into
Chesapeake Bay. Their first contact
with Europeans was in 1608, with English explorer Captain John Smith who
considered them the best merchants
with which to trade.
“That’s because we were a peaceful
tribe,” Robbins said. “We didn’t try to
conquer or be greedy. That’s one thing
we want people to learn when they
visit, as well as the fact that we don’t
want to lose our heritage. That’s why
we are here. We originated out of water
and we are here to stay.”
Motorcoaches can drop groups
off at the museum entrance. There is
ample free parking in a nearby lot.S
302-945 7022 nanticokeindians.org/museum.cfm
Nov • Dec • Jan
77
Itinerary/
MARYLAND
MARYLAND
Maryland Dove, Historic St. Mary’s City
GO
Ewell, Lexington Park,
Solomons and
St. Mary’s City
EAT
Bayside Inn Restaurant
410-425-2771
Ruddy Duck Brewery & Grill
410-394-3825
ruddyduckbrewery.com
SEE
Calvert Marine Museum
410-326-2042
calvertmarinemuseum.com
Historic St. Mary’s City
240-895-4990
hsmcdigshistory.org
Smith Island Cultural Center
410-425-3351
smithisland.org
STAY
Hilton Garden Inn Solomons
410-326-0303
hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com
ASK
Maryland Office of Tourism
410-767-6288
industry.visitmaryland.org/group-tour
A popular weekend destination, Solomons is located at the southern tip of Calvert County. It includes Solomons Island,
as well as the north side of Patuxent River,
where it meets the Chesapeake Bay.
Originally called Bourne’s Island (1680),
then Somervell’s Island (1740), Solomons
was named after 19th-century Baltimore
businessman Isaac Solomon, who established
a cannery there shortly after the Civil War.
Learn more about the area’s history
with this three-day itinerary provided by
Calvert County Tourism and the Maryland
Office of Tourism.
Day Two
In the morning, enjoy the hotel’s complete breakfast buffet or items cooked-toorder.
Head to Point Lookout State Park for a
cruise to Smith Island, an inhabited island
located in the center of the Chesapeake
Bay. Take note, the Smith Island Ferry only
runs June through August.
The Smith Island Cultural Center in
Ewell grew out of a request from the community for a place where visitors can learn
about the island and its history, economics
and social life.
Enjoy a wonderful family-style lunch
at the Bayside Inn
Restaurant and
enjoy some free
time exploring the
island.
Return to the
hotel to enjoy the
remainder of the
day. Groups can
enjoy dinner at the
Ruddy Duck Brewery & Grill, located
next door.
Day One
Travel to southern Maryland and
enjoy lunch en
route to Solomons.
Tour the Calvert
Marine Museum
and take a onehour harbor cruise
on the Wm. B.
Tennison. Built as a
bugeye in 1899, the
boat was converted
from sail to power
Wm. B. Tennison cruise,
and worked as oysDay Three
Calvert Marine Museum, Solomons
ter buy boat until
After breakfast,
1978. It is now used
board the motorfor passenger cruises and charters. On the
coach and depart for St. Mary’s City.
cruise, groups will see Solomons Island and
Historic St. Mary’s City is the site of
the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory, pass
the state’s first capital and the fourth
underneath the Governor Thomas Johnson
permanent British settlement. Costumed
Bridge, and turn back at Point Patience and
interpreters will tell the story of Maryland’s
the Naval Recreation Center. Group rates
early years in the re-created 17th-century
to the museum are available by calling with
setting. While in the city, explore a Wooda two-week advanced notice.
land Indian hamlet, visit the mistress of
Enjoy a driving tour of the area with a
Godiah Spray Plantation and step aboard
local step-on guide. Check in for the evea replica of the Maryland Dove, one of two
ning at the Hilton Garden Inn Solomons.
ships that brought colonists to Maryland.
Board the motorcoach and depart for
At water’s edge, take in a pristine view
Lighthouse Restaurant & Dock Bar, which
that Lord Baltimore would have recogopened last year. The menu includes opnized.
tions from Center Cut Filet Mignon to the
And if time permits, check out the new
“Original” Crab Cake Sandwich.
Patuxent River Naval Air Station Museum
Return to the hotel to enjoy the remainin Lexington Park, about 15 minutes north
der of the evening.
of St. Mary’s City.S
Photo: Calvert Marine Museum
Photo: Magnus Manske
Find the jewels of Chesapeake Bay
78
Season
MARYLAND
Maryland spotlights religious history
Photo: Basilica1
Maryland is considered
Christ Episcopal Church,
to be the birthplace of reliChaptico, one of the oldest
gious freedom in America,
churches in continual use
dating back to its earliest
in America. Its congregaColonial days when the state
tion dates to 1640.
became a refuge for RoLocated in Talbot
man Catholics sailing from
County, Third Haven
England.
Friends Meeting House
“Maryland’s history is
has occupied the same
rooted in the idea of reproperty since 1682. The
ligious freedom,” said Liz
original meeting house was
Fitzsimmons, executive
completed in 1684, and
director of the Maryland
although the structure has
Office of Tourism. “The first
been modified and other
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, Baltimore
settlers arrived in the 17th
buildings have been added
century seeking religious
over the years, the original
tolerance, and the multimeetinghouse is still in acand 1821.
tude of worship sites across the state
tive
use.
It
is
the oldest Quaker meeting
In southern Maryland, Christ
are a testament to those that sacrificed
house in the U.S.S
Church, King and Queen Parish in
much to come to our shores in peaceful
Chaptico is one of the two original Copursuit of their faith.”
Maryland Office of Tourism
lonial parishes in the area now known
Historic religious locations are
410-767-6288
as St. Mary’s County and has served
found throughout the state.
visitmaryland.org
for more than 300 years. The other is
In Emmitsburg, visit the National
Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton,
the first native-born saint in the United
States. The shrine is where she lived
OCEAN CITY, MD
from 1809 until her death in 1821. A
basilica houses her tomb.
Reservations are required for group
tours of the Basilica of the National
Shrine of the Assumption of the Virgin
Mary in Baltimore. This was the first
Roman Catholic cathedral built in the
U.S. and a symbol of the country’s
newfound religious freedom. The
basilica was constructed between 1806
MORE THAN JUST THE BEACH!
FUN UNDER THE OCEAN CITY SUN
Planning a group trip has never been easier—or more fun! Whoever you’re
planning for, let us be your tour guide. All you have to do is sit back, relax
and enjoy the OC view. There’s literally something for everyone, including:
Our FREE award-winning boardwalk and 10-mile beach
200+ restaurants and non-stop nightlife
Year-round festivals, concerts and events, including
Branson at the Beach, coming March 21-24, 2016
Photo: Richard Dawson
Shopping, wildlife and historical museums
Christ Church, King and Queen Parish, Chaptico
So start planning your group trip to Ocean City, MD, now.
BOOK YOUR TRIP NOW!
Call Norma Dobrowolski
CVB Destination Sales & Marketing Manager | 800.626.2326
OCO-2015-21048 Group_Travel_Magazine-Northeastern_4.75x4.75.indd 1
ococean.com/group-travel
9/14/15 4:04 PM
Nov • Dec • Jan
79
MARYLAND
Assateague Island National Seashore turned 50 this year.
The 37-mile-long undeveloped
barrier island is located off the coast
of Maryland and Virginia in the Atlantic Ocean.
Assateague offers opportunities for
wilderness solitude, nature exploration and wildlife viewing.
A visitor center is located north
of Berlin in the seashore’s Maryland
district.
Thanks to Marguerite Henry’s
famous 1947 book, Misty of Chincoteague, many people know about the
wild horses of Assateague Island. The
classic children’s tale tells the story of
a young horse called Misty and the
children who loved her.
The horses are descendants of
domesticated animals brought to the
island over 300 years ago. The animals
are tough enough to survive scorch-
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Photo: National Park Service
Assateague displays nature at its finest
Wild horses, Assateague Island
ing heat, abundant insects, stormy
weather and poor-quality food.
Horses roam freely throughout the
Maryland portion of the island.
The National Park Service warns
visitors not to feed or pet the horses,
as horses that learn to come up to the
road are hit and killed by cars.
Visitors are kicked, bitten and
knocked down every year as a direct
result of getting too close to the wild
horses.
Virginia’s horses are owned by the
Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company
and are kept separated from Maryland’s horses by a fence that runs across
the Maryland/Virginia state line.
Assateague Island has a variety of
paved and unpaved trails open for
hiking and ranger-led programs.
Maryland Coastal Bays Program
rents bicycles, canoes and kayaks, and
offers a discount for groups of 10 or
more people.S
Assateague Island National Seashore
410-641-1441
nps.gov/asis
Leave the Pavement Behind
Baltimore Water Taxi is the easy, fun and affordable way to get around!
SEE MORE
SAVE MORE
BALTI–MORE
MARYLAND SCIENCE CENTER
at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor
Call for Group Rates 410.545.5929
601 Light Street, Baltimore MD 21230
www.marylandsciencecenter.org
80
Toll Free: 800-658-8947 baltimorewatertaxi.com
Browse New Jersey’s
trendiest shopping hubs
Frugal fashionistas love getting the latest styles, but at a great price. In New Jersey, every dollar stretches further because
shoppers never pay sales tax on clothing
or footwear. From boho-chic to urban and
sleek, groups can nab the latest trends to
suit their personal styles in the state’s wide
array of outlets, shopping districts and, of
course, malls.
With seven major venues in a 25-mile
radius, New Jersey lays claim to the greatest
density of malls in the nation. Combine
these shopping centers to create the ultimate one- to three-day itinerary.
5TH, Nordstrom Rack, Neiman Marcus
Last Call Studio and numerous other purveyors of fashion.
The Mills at Jersey Gardens
Elizabeth
With more than 200 stores under one
roof, this is the largest of New Jersey’s outlet centers and it’s located just 30 minutes
from midtown Manhattan. From designer
darlings like Calvin Klein and Michael
Kors, to one-stop shops like Marshalls and
Neiman Marcus Last Call, groups find
everything they need to fill their closets
with style.
Paramus Park Mall
Paramus
As Bergen County’s favorite groupfriendly retail center, Paramus Park Mall
has two anchoring department stores and
a lineup of more than 100 specialty shops
such as L.L. Bean, The Limited, Brighton
Collectibles, Chico’s, Soma Intimates, Famous Footwear and Olympia Sports.
The Mall at Short Hills
Short Hills
There’s luxury at every turn in The Mall
at Short Hills. More than 150 upscale and
designer boutiques are all stunningly situated in a sophisticated and glamorous environment for your group’s sheer shopping
pleasure. Coveted brands include Cartier,
Hermès, Jimmy Choo, Kate Spade, Prada,
Tori Burch and more.
Outlets at Bergen Town Center
Paramus
Conveniently located at Route 4 & Forest Avenue in Paramus, this mega outlet
center showcases specialty shops and eateries, including Century 21, Bloomingdales’s
The Outlet Store, Saks Fifth Avenue OFF
City Place
Edgewater
Groups can shop to their hearts’ content
as they stroll along the scenic Hudson River
in Edgewater at City Place, an outdoor
retail center and luxury residential condominium complex. Discover its 26 stores,
including Pier 1, Victoria’s Secret, Bath &
Body Works, as well as its seven popular
restaurants.
Woodbridge Center
Woodbridge
A broad assortment of price points and
an equally expansive merchandise selection means there’s something for everyone
in Woodbridge Center’s six anchor stores
and 200 additional retailers. The group can
shop the latest styles in stores like bebe,
Cotton On, Express, G by Guess, Garage,
Tilly’s, Love Culture and DTLR.
The Shops at Riverside
Hackensack
Upscale retail has a Hackensack address
in The Shops at Riverside. Label lovers will
enjoy shopping this unrivaled collection of
72 specialty stores including such luxury
brands as Salvatore Ferragamo, Omega
Boutique, Louis Vuitton, Brooks Brothers,
Burberry, ILORI and Stuart Weitzman.S
Photo: The Mall at Short Hills
Itinerary/ NEW JERSEY
Interior, The Mall at Short Hills, Short Hills
GO
Edgewater, Elizabeth,
Hackensack, Paramus,
Short Hills and Woodbridge
SHOP
City Place
201-945-1851
shopcityplacenj.com
The Mall at Short Hills
973-376-7359
shopshorthills.com
The Mills at Jersey Gardens
908-354-5900
simon.com
Outlets at Bergen Town Center
201-845-4050
bergentowncenter.com
Paramus Park Mall
201-261-8000
paramuspark.com
Woodbridge Center
732-636-4600
woodbridgecenter.com
The Shops at Riverside
201-489-2212
simon.com
ASK
State of New Jersey
Division of Travel and Tourism
609-599-6540
visitnj.org
Nov • Dec • Jan
81
NEW JERSEY
Strange yet somehow familiar
figures stand by the roadside leading up to Grounds for Sculpture in
Hamilton. Some of them are human
height and look like hitchhikers. Others
are giant, like the stern yet beckoning couple clutching a pitchfork from
Grant Wood’s well-known painting
American Gothic. They’re part of the
Sculpture Along the Way program at
the park, created by artist and Johnson
& Johnson heir Seward Johnson.
The Nine Muses by Carlos Dorrien,
“They’re sprinkled along the path
Grounds for Sculpture, Hamilton
because our founder, Seward Johnson,
wanted to whet the appetite for guests
park, where 270 outdoor works repreas they draw close to the sculpsent more than 100 artists.
ture park,” said marketing director
“Part of what makes us unique is
Coby Green-Rifkin. “They give a sense
that we really encourage interaction
of what’s to come.”
with the works,” Green-Rifkin said.
Walter Dusenbery’s Damascus Gate
SCChamber_GroupTour_7.25x4.75_Fall2015_PRINT.pdf
1
9/11/15
3:21 PM
“The majority of them we want you
greets groups at the entrance to the
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
82
Photo: David W. Steele
Interact with familiar artistic works
at Grounds for Sculpture
to touch, with care and respect. It’s
all about discovery, engagement and
forming your own relationships with
the work.”
Wandering around could take the
best part of a day. The 42-acre park
opened in 1992, adjacent to Johnson’s atelier and on the site of the
former state fairgrounds. Some of the
original buildings have been transformed into galleries.
The new Welcome Center is ideal for
group arrivals. Motorcoaches can drop
off in the facility’s cul-de-sac and park
for free nearby. Groups also can make
use of two cafes and a restaurant managed by restaurateur Stephen Starr.S
Grounds for Sculpture
609-586-0616, ext. 200
groundsforsculpture.org/visit/groups
Itinerary/
NEW YORK
NEW YORK
Photo: visitfingerlakes.com
Find castles, lakes and
grapes galore in the Finger Lakes
Belhurst Castle, Geneva
GO
Finger Lakes
DO
Canandaigua Lady Paddle Boat
steamboatlandingresort.com
Corning Museum of Glass
cmog.org
EAT
Belhurst
belhurst.com
Brew & Brats
brewandbrats.com
Hollaway House
thehollowayhouse.com
New York Wine and Culinary Center
nywcc.com
Simply Crepes
simplycrepes.com
Wegmans Market Café
wegmans.com
SEE
Antique Wireless Museum
antiquewireless.org
Lazy Acres Alpaca Farm
lazyacresalpacas.com
ASK
Finger Lakes Visitors Connection
877-386-4669
visitfingerlakes.com
Sue Schmidt, vice president of sales at
Finger Lakes Visitors Connection, shared
this four-day sample itinerary.
“I find my job very rewarding because I
am able to help tour operators plan amazing experiential itineraries for their clients,”
Schmidt said. “Being a native of this area, I
truly know the product and the real people
that can convey what the Finger Lakes are
all about. The locations that I share with
you on my suggested itineraries are one of
a kind and you will find them fascinating.
So, I invite you to ‘Taste the Life.’ Discover
what the locals do, the best places to eat,
learn and shop, and how to have fun in
upstate New York.”
Day One
Begin at the Corning Museum of Glass,
the world’s largest glass museum that recently
opened a Contemporary Art + Design wing.
There are glass-blowing demonstrations and
a hands-on glass-making experience.
Travel along Seneca Lake on the way
to Geneva, where the group stops at Red
Jacket Orchards for a tour, some tasty
shopping time and an introduction to
Finger Lakes flavor.
Spend the evening with a wine tasting
at Belhurst and a delightful dinner in the
castle overlooking Seneca Lake.
Day Two
Start at Ganondagan State Historic Site
in Victor. A replica Native American bark
longhouse stands at the location of what
was one of the largest, most vital 17thcentury Seneca towns until its destruction
in 1687. The new Seneca Art & Culture
Center tells the story of the Seneca and
Haudenosaunee (Iroquois).
Brew & Brats makes a unique luncheon
stop. The restaurant offers locally made bratwursts, grape pie, craft beer and fine wines.
Guests aren’t allowed to board the coach
without shopping at Arbor Hill Grapery
& Winery — its handmade products have
been featured on the Food Network.
It’s show time! Enjoy a matinee at Bris-
tol Valley Theater in Naples. The professional theater features performers from
Broadway and all around the country.
Stop at Joseph’s Wayside Market, a
seasonal, open-air market with fresh local
fruits, baked goods, handmade products
and wines.
Ready for a chill that makes groups’
neck hairs stand up? Then a dinner and
tour at the historic Naples Hotel is in
order. Built in 1895 and featured on Ghost
Hunter, the hotel has been home to countless travelers over the years — some of
whom have never left.
Day Three
Explore Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum.
Step into the Victorian era with a tour
at the Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion
State Historic Park.
Eat lunch at Wegmans Market Café.
This nationally recognized grocery store
and market cafe develops a year-round
appreciation of fresh produce from the
region’s best growers.
An afternoon scenic cruise on Canandaigua Lake on the Canandaigua Lady gives
the group time to sit back, unwind and
digest lunch on a replica of a 19th-century
double-decker paddlewheel boat.
Savor a delicious dinner in a classroom.
At the New York Wine and Culinary Center
in Canandaigua, enjoy the entertaining and
educational dinner and wine tasting experience in a demonstration theater.
Day Four
Morning fare will be prepared at Simply
Crepes, with a crepe demonstration in the
farm-to-table restaurant.
Visit the Antique Wireless Museum in
Bloomfield, where the ages of communication are showcased.
Stop at Lazy Acres Alpaca Farm for a
chance to kiss an alpaca.
And at Holloway House, enjoy a nostalgic lunch prepared in an 1808 stagecoach
tavern.S
84
NEW YORK
Step into the romantic history of Boldt Castle
More than 1,800 islands rise in the
scenic St. Lawrence River and eastern
Lake Ontario to form the Thousand
Islands-Seaway Region. Group-friendly
attractions include boat tours, battlefields and castles, like Boldt Castle.
Boldt Castle is located on Heart
Island in United States’ waters.
The full-size Rhineland-style castle
was built at the turn of the 20th century
as a retreat for the George C. Boldt family.
Boldt was a millionaire and proprietor of
the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York
City. When his wife Louise died unexpectedly in 1904, construction stopped and
the 120-room home was not completed.
Rehabilitation started 73 years later
when the Thousand Islands Bridge
Authority assumed ownership in 1977.
Today, the castle and the Boldt Yacht
House on Wellesley Island are picture
perfect and welcome visitors from
around the world.
Tours of the 5-acre island include exhibits in six buildings; many exhibits display before and after renovation photos.
The first floor of the castle has been
restored to period and to reflect the
Boldt’s intended interior. Hundreds
of windows were replaced during the
renovation and custom-made doors
and decorative windows were placed.
From the indoor pool at the foundation level to the highest tower, the
castle rises six stories.
The yacht house, now listed on the
National Register of Historic Places, is
also open for tours. The Boldt’s family
yachts and houseboat were stored in
slips measuring 128 feet.
A snack bar offers a luncheon menu;
outside food and beverages are allowed
and picnic tables are available.S
Thousand Islands
International Tourism Council
800-847-5263, groups
visit1000islands.com
Boldt Castle/Thousand Islands
Bridge Authority
When a choice has to be made,
EmpirE HotEl Group will
make it easy for your group.
1000 Islands
New York - Ontario
Great Scenery
Boat Tours
Castles
Heritage Sites
Lighthouses
The Pearl
oPera house
Travel inn
belvedere
lucerne
newTon
Luxury... Moderate... Budget...
Great locations from
uptown to midtown to the Bronx...
We’ve got it!
make the right choice...
Call Empire Hotel Group Sales
Tour1000.com
Group Tour ad 15.indd 1
In season: 315-482-9724,
Off season: 315-482-2501
boldtcastle.com
646.822.9191
www.new yorkhotel.com
9/24/2015 11:27:01 AM
Nov • Dec • Jan
85
NEW YORK
Metropolitan Museum features Adam
The marble sculpture Adam by Tullio
Lombardo (circa 1455–1532) returned
to public view late last fall at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York
City following a 12-year conservation
project. It’s in a special exhibition in
the museum’s new Venetian Sculpture
Gallery.
Adam is now the focal point of this
permanent gallery, in a niche inspired
by its original location in a monumental tomb in Venice. The creation of this
new space has encouraged the curatorial reassessment of the Met’s sculpture
collection from this period.
Advance reservations are required for
all groups of 10 or more, and for any
third-party guided tours, regardless of
size.
Group admissions reserved in
advance receive special rates and can
bypass admission lines via the exclusive
Group Registration Desk.S
Metropolitan Museum of Art
212-570-3711
metmuseum.org
GROUPS 20+ SAVE UP TO 30%!*
*Offer valid on select tours.
GET AN ALL ACCESS LOOK AT THE
WORLD’S MOST FAMOUS ARENA !
®
Explore exclusive VIP areas of the state-of-the-art
arena and commemorate over 130 years of
legendary Garden history.
TOURS RUN DAILY STARTING AT 10:30AM
4 PENNSYLVANIA PLAZA (32 nd St. & 7 th Ave.)
CALL: 212-465-6080
EMAIL: Group.Sales@msg.com
VISIT: MSGGroupSales.com
*All sales are final—no refunds or exchanges. Offer not valid on previously purchased tickets
and cannot be combined with any other offer. Tour content, prices, dates and times are subject
to change. Offer may be revoked or modified at any time without notice and is subject to
availability. Other restrictions may apply. A $25 shipping and handling fee will be applied to all orders
requesting ticket delivery. There is no fee for tickets being held at the Madison Square Garden
Box Office. If special accommodations are needed please call 212-465-5801 after ticket purchase.
©2015 MSG Holdings, L.P. All rights reserved.
86
NEW YORK
New shows unleashed on Broadway
Broadway has something for everyone this fall with a slate of exciting new
shows set to bring a season of diversity
to the Great White Way.
Performances began Oct. 5 at the
Marquis Theatre for On Your Feet!, the
Emilio and Gloria Estefan story. The
new Broadway musical is about heart,
heritage and the two people who believed in their talent — and each other
— to become an international sensation.
In its pre-Broadway world premiere
engagement this past summer in Chicago, audiences roared and critics raved
with the Chicago Tribune declaring,
“It’s a hit!” and The Huffington Post
cheering, “On Your Feet! will renew
your faith in the American Dream!
It’s an evening of exhilarating dance,
invigorating music and a truly inspirational story.”
Oct. 6 marked the beginning of
performances for Allegiance starring
George Takei (Star Trek and Heroes) at
the Longacre Theatre. Allegiance, a show
The San Diego Union-Tribune hailed as
“a sublime new musical” also stars Telly
Leung (Glee) and Lea Salonga (Miss
Saigon, Aladdin, Mulan) in her highly
anticipated return to Broadway.
Inspired by Takei’s true-life experience, Allegiance is an untold American story spanning from the lush
California heartland, to the windswept
prairies of Wyoming, to the European battlefields of World War II — a
multi-generational tale of one Japanese
American family’s love, optimism and
unparalleled heroism in the face of
unimaginable circumstances.
The much-anticipated revival of The
Color Purple begins previews on Nov. 9
at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre. Based
on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel
and the Oscar-nominated film, The
Color Purple follows the inspirational
story of Celie, a young woman who,
through her life, discovers her own
self-worth and the true meaning of
love. This critically acclaimed production is a transfer from London’s Menier
Chocolate Factory and stars Cynthia
Erivo, Danielle Brooks (Orange is the
New Black) and Oscar winner Jennifer
Hudson in her Broadway debut.
Recently, Tony Award-winner
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s new musical
Hamilton arrived on Broadway and
lived up to the hype generated by its
previous sold-out run at New York’s
Public Theatre with The New York
Times’ assurance: “Yes, it really is that
good.” Hamilton follows the life and
trials of Alexander Hamilton through
a modern, unique and fresh perspective. This ambitious, astonishing new
musical at the Richard Rodgers Theatre
is taking Broadway by storm.S
Broadway.com/Group Sales Box Office
800-BROADWAY, ext. 2
broadway.com/groups
GROUPSALESBOXOFFICE
We’re not Just Broadway. We’re The Best of Broadway.
Your One-Stop-Shop for Group Travel to Broadway
1-800-BROADWAY x2 broadway.com/groups
GSBO_Destinations_475x475.indd 1
9/15/15 9:28 PM
Nov • Dec • Jan
87
NEW YORK
Groups can now expect longer tours
at New York’s Whitney Museum of
American Art. The collection has moved
to a new building more than double the
size of its previous home, where it resided
for 50 years on the Upper East Side.
“There’s more to see,” said Wendy
Barbee-Lowell, manager of visitor services. “We have never had so many pieces
of our collection on view at one time.”
This year, the new Whitney opened
just a mile from its original 1930s location in the trendy Meatpacking and
Chelsea art district. At the new location, motorcoaches can easily drop off
visitors in front of the museum.
The museum benefits from being
placed at the southern end of the High
Line, Manhattan’s elevated park and a
tourist hit that transformed the area.
It also benefits from world-re-
Photo: Lee Howard New facility offers cutting-edge look
at Whitney Museum of American Art
Pop Art gallery tour, Whitney Museum of American Art, New York City nowned architect Renzo Piano’s industrial modern design that makes the best
use of light and space, both inside and
out. The museum boasts the city’s largest column-free gallery, and terraces
and viewing areas that look out to the
Hudson River and across Manhattan.
“After a group has finished their
hour-and-a-half tour, they can still go
through the building and the outdoor
spaces, the cafe, the gift shop — all that’s
available for them to see,” Barbee-Lowell
said. “From here, they can see One
World Trade Center, spectacular views
of the city, the Empire State Building
and even the Statue of Liberty.”
The 220,000-square-foot, nine-story
building, designed and built at a cost
of $422 million, devotes two floors to
Ad-GTMnortheastern-11-15
9/21/15
3:46 PM
temporary
exhibition space.
Two other
floors are dedicated to works from its
permanent collection, rotated from
over 22,000 objects.
Museum favorites include the likes
of Jasper Johns, Andy Warhol, Alexander Calder, Georgia O’Keeffe and
Edward Hopper, which can be seen on
in-depth, customizable tours led by art
history experts.
Works by living artists are featured
in specially designed spaces, making
the Whitney one of the boldest and
most important destinations for enthusiasts of 20th century and contemporary American art.S
Whitney Museum of American Art
212-570-3600
grouptours@whitney.org
Page
1
whitney.org
a four-season group
friendly destination
• Scenic Lake Cruises
• Colorful Autumn Foliage
• eme Parks & Me!
call: 800-365-1050 or
visitlakegeorge.com
88
HISTORICAL
POWERFUL
explore&more.
niagara-usa.com/group-tours
WONDER FU L
NEW YORK
AMERICA’S MOST MONUMENTAL EXPERIENCE SINCE 1846
Boats Depart from Niagara Falls, USA
MaidoftheMist.com
716.284.8897
Photo: Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau
Itinerary/ PENNSYLVANIA
Grey Towers National Historic Site, Milford
GO
Bushkill, Hawley,
Jim Thorpe, Milford,
Saylorsburg and
Tannersville
DO
The Water Gap Trolley Experience
570-476-9766
watergaptrolley.com
EAT
Broadway Grille & Pub
570-732-4343
broadwaygrillepub.com
Ehrhardt’s Waterfront Restaurant
570-226-2124
ehrhardts.com/restaurant
SEE
The Asa Packer Mansion Museum
570-325-3229
asapackermansion.com
Grey Towers National Historic Site
570-296-9630
greytowers.org
SHOP
The Crossings Premium Outlets
570-629-4650
premiumoutlets.com
SIP
Sorrenti Cherry Valley Vineyards
570-992-2255
cherryvalleyvineyards.com
ASK
Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau
570-421-5791
poconomountains.com
90
Pocono Mountains merge
excitement and tranquility
Conveniently located in northeast
Pennsylvania, the Pocono Mountains region is less than two hours from New York
City and two hours from Philadelphia. And
six interstate highways make it an easy-toreach destination.
With this three-day itinerary, the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau tapped
into the region’s best tour stops.
Day One
Milford day
Take a narrated hour-long trolley ride
with The Water Gap Trolley Experience.
The tour will showcase the beautiful scenery of the Delaware Water Gap National
Recreation Area, which includes a picnic
area, mini golf and a gift shop.
Stop at Country Kettle on the way to
Milford. There’s also a Candy & Trinket
shop located on Route 209.
Make a leisurely stop at Bushkill Falls
for scenic views and photo opportunities.
Move on to visit Grey Towers National
Historic Site. Built in 1886, it was the home
of Gifford Pinchot, the first chief of the
U.S. Forest Service and the twice-elected
governor of Pennsylvania. There are multiple tours to choose from, including The
Pinchots and Milford Walking Tour and a
guided tour of the Grey Towers Mansion.
Enjoy a lakeside lunch at Ehrhardt’s
Waterfront Restaurant. The restaurant
overlooks the beautiful Lake Wallenpaupack, a man-made lake in Hawley that is 13
miles long and encompassed by 52 miles
of uninterrupted shoreline. This view is
one that is sure to make the group’s dining
experience unforgettable.
Move on to the historical and scenic
Route 6, known as the Pennsylvania Route 6
Heritage Corridor. This route has many historic firsts to offer, including the first underground mine, the first billion-dollar oil field
and the first steam locomotive. The 427 miles
of The Pennsylvania Stretch was the original
terminus of Route 6, before it expanded to
reach across the United States. There is an
array of activities to experience along this
scenic route, including heritage sites, museums, wineries, tours and shopping.
Choose one of the many resort accommodations in the Pocono Mountains that
offer exceptional hospitality.
Day Two
Shopping day
Shop around 100 stores at The Crossings Premium Outlets in Tannersville.
Next, take time to unwind at Mountain
View Vineyard Winery & Distillery. Mountain View offers daily wine and distilled
spirits tastings, vineyard and distillery
tours, a wide variety of wine and spirits for
purchase, and a gift shop.
Day Three
Jim Thorpe day
On the way to historic Jim Thorpe, stop
at Country Junction on Route 209.
Tour The Asa Packer Mansion Museum,
home of the railroad tycoon and founder
of Lehigh University. It is a Victorian
mansion that has been left untouched and
preserved the exact way Packer left it. It’s
also a National Historic Site.
Have lunch at Broadway Grille & Pub
located in the historic The Inn at Jim Thorpe, established in 1849.
Take a ride on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic
Railway. The narrated 70-minute, 16-mile
round trip offers gorgeous views of the
Lehigh River Gorge.
Check out the Jim Thorpe Memorial
and Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural
Center. Learn about the history of the
town of Mauch Chunk (Jim Thorpe) and
see the historic memorial of the legendary
Olympian.
Afterward, stop at Sorrenti Cherry Valley Vineyards in Saylorsburg for the perfect
end cap to the day.S
tours are
greater
in
the
pocono
Photo credit: William McKee
mountains
Visit PoconoMountains.com/groups-tours or
call 800-722-9199 for customized tour planning.
PENNSYLVANIA
In Gettysburg, groups can digest
Civil War history and a generous portion of good food too.
Gettysburg is one of the most famous
and historically important small towns
in America, but there’s more to this
community than its pivotal role in the
Civil War. Savor Gettysburg Food Tours
offers insight into its history, but also offers an intimate glimpse of the town as it
is now through its modern-day eateries.
Groups may eat, drink and learn
history with any of Savor Gettysburg’s three different itineraries — the
Historic Downtown Tour, the Savory
Sweets Tour or the Wine, Cider and
Dine Tour.
All three are walking tours lasting
approximately three hours and span a
distance of just under 1 mile of comfortable, casual walking. Each incorpo-
Photo: Savor Gettysburg Food Tours
Company shares Gettysburg history and food
Gettysburg food, Savor Gettysburg Food Tours,
Gettysburg
rates different aspects of local history
combined with multiple stops at locally
owned ethnic eateries, historic taverns,
family bistros and wineries.
“As we walk around town, I share
historical vignettes about the history of
Gettysburg, as well as the culture and the
people who lived here,” said Lori Korczyk,
owner and tour director. “I talk about
the civilians who resided here during the
time of the battle, so people can get a
taste of Gettysburg not only through the
variety of different foods, but through
the rich history this town offers.”
All food tastings are included in the
ticket price. Tours range in size from a
minimum of six to a maximum of 14.
“The restaurants in Gettysburg are
small and limit the size of our groups
so that our guests can receive personalized service and an overall exceptional
experience,” Korczyk said.
Motorcoach parking is available at
the fire department parking lot or the
Gettysburg Heritage Center lot.S
Savor Gettysburg Food Tours
contact@savorgettysburgfoodtours.com
savorgettysburgfoodtours.com
This November, One Liberty Observation Deck opens its doors, welcoming visitors and groups to the newest
tourist attraction in Philadelphia.
Towering 57 floors (883 feet to be
exact) above street level, One Liberty
Observation Deck will not only provide
sweeping views of Philadelphia, but also
a one-of-a-kind vantage point to take
in the continuing evolution of the city
92
known as the birthplace of the nation.
From history to sports and the arts,
subjects will spring to life and off the
page as One Liberty Observation Deck
introduces interactive and unique visitor experiences, including a zoomable,
panoramic image of the city that illustrates the real Philadelphia story. Not
to mention, visitors will be able to see
picture-postcard views of downtown
Philadelphia and beyond. And the gift
shop carries unique, themed gifts.
As a bonus, One Liberty Observation
Deck will be open 365 days a year with
discounted group rates, said sales manager Diane Meglino. Groups can see
Philly in the glory of the sun or under
the stars, as the enclosed observation
deck is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
For daytime visitors, the deck offers
direct access to the Shops at Liberty
Place (a shopping mall with 42 stores,
including Bloomingdales the Outlet, 16
food court options and a restaurant)
and easy access to nearby attractions
Photo: One Liberty Observation Deck
opens in Philadelphia
One Liberty Observation Deck, Philadelphia
within the Center City area.
Special group packages with other
area attractions and restaurants can be
customized for groups.
Just steps outside of the building,
groups will find a convenient and safe
motorcoach-loading zone. And the entire venue is handicapped accessible.S
215-561-3225
phillyfromthetop.com
MAKE A DISCOVERY
@discoverPHL
discover_PHL
/discoverPHL
#makeitPHL
Student GroupTour-JUNE2_Layout 1 8/21/15 3:48 P
AHOY, GROUPS!
Climb Aboard a Rare Treasure
Call 215-413-8622 for special group rates
phillyseaport.org • 211 S. Columbus Blvd. Philadelphia, PA 19106 • Penn’s Landing
VISIT
Book your group today!
Call 215.409.6800 or visit constitutioncenter.org.
IT’S VIEWTIFUL FROM 883 FEET UP.
Discover Philadelphia’s NEWEST ATTRACTION at the top of One Liberty Place.
Once-in-a-lifetime views of City Hall, the Ben Franklin Parkway, and other Philly favorites.
The enclosed observation deck provides stunning 360° views, 365 days a year from 10am to 10pm.
Interactive exhibits and endless photo opps make it the perfect first stop for adult and student groups.
PhillyFromTheTop.com
Diane Meglino Sales Manager
215.561.DECK (3325) or Diane@PhillyFromTheTop.com
Nov • Dec • Jan
93
Itinerary/
WASHINGTON,
WASHINGTON,
D.C. D.C.
White House, Washington, D.C.
GO
Washington, D.C.
EAT
FRESHFARM Market
202-362-8889
freshfarmmarkets.org
Good Stuff Eatery
202-543-8222
goodstuffeatery.com
SEE
Corcoran Gallery of Art
202-639-1798
collection.corcoran.org
866-823-9569
madametussauds.com/washington
The National Museum
of American History
202-633-1000
americanhistory.si.edu
National Portrait Gallery
202-633-8300
npg.si.edu
Newseum
202-292-6690
newseum.org
ASK
Destination DC
202-789-7000
washington.org
Imagine eating dinner in a restaurant
where President Barack Obama himself
enjoys dining, and envision the elegance of
first ladies’ gowns at the National Museum
of American History.
For an ultimate presidential group tour
with highlights like these, head nowhere
other than the District of Columbia. Destination DC provided this two-day itinerary.
Blue Duck Tavern or BLT Steak, both datenight picks for the first couple. For a more
casual evening, try We the Pizza.
Day Two
Morning: Start the day at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American
History. Admire the first ladies’ gowns,
including Michelle Obama’s famous Jason
Wu-designed inaugural gown. Then visit
Day One
the American Presidency exhibition. Next,
Morning: Start the day where any presihead to the District’s Anacostia neighbordential tour should: at the White House.
hood to visit the home of another gifted
Pose for a photo op, stop by the White
orator and statesman, Frederick Douglass,
House Visitor Center and then grab breakat his former residence, Cedar Hill.
fast at the nearby
Next, visit the
White House
Corcoran Gallery of
FRESHFARM
Art, where the first
Market. With
family viewed an
healthy fruits and
exhibition of confresh-baked breads
temporary Africanon the menu, the
American artists.
first lady would
A visit to Ben’s
surely approve.
Chili Bowl is a must;
Next, head to
be sure to order
the Newseum, a
the signature chili
250,000-squarehalf-smoke, one
foot museum dediof the president’s
Newseum, Washington, D.C.
cated to the history
favorites. He’s been
of news. Make sure
back several times,
to stop by “First Dogs: American Presidents
including on a visit with French Presiand Their Pets.” The first family has visited
dent Sarkozy and his wife. Or, experience
the exhibit, which features their dog Bo.
Barack’s well-documented love of barbecue
Afternoon: For lunch, try the burgers
at Kenny’s BBQ Smokehouse on Capitol
at Good Stuff Eatery, where the first lady
Hill. Recently, the president stopped in for
has been known to dine (and has a healthy
an unscheduled lunch where he dined on
turkey burger named in her honor). The
ribs, collard greens and black-eyed peas
president prefers Ray’s Hell Burger across
with two soldiers and two local barbers.
the river in Arlington, Virginia.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at
Next, stop at the National Portrait Galthe United States Holocaust Memorial
lery, where Shepard Fairey’s famous Obama
Museum. The president once visited the
print is on display, as well as portraits of
museum with his daughters. He returned
all of former America’s presidents. Then
with Holocaust survivor and Nobel Prize
walk to The Presidents Gallery in Madame
Laureate Elie Wiesel. Obama lit a candle in
Tussauds Washington D.C. to take pictures
the museum’s Hall of Remembrance.
with lifelike wax figures of the first couple.
Evening: Wind down with dinner near
Evening: The sports-minded group
Union Station at Art and Soul. Nine friends
might consider catching one of Washingjoined Michelle Obama there for dinton, D.C.’s many sports teams in a game at
ner before attending the Celebration of
the Verizon Center, where the president has
Women in the Arts at the Kennedy Center.
attended basketball games.
It’s also where Oprah Winfrey filmed her
End the day with an elegant dinner at
special inauguration episode.S
Photo: Maria Bryk/Newseum
Photo: Mary A. Behre
Play in the president’s backyard
94
Season
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Sometimes plans move slowly in
Washington, D.C.
The John F. Kennedy Center — the
country’s busiest performing arts venue
— opened its doors in 1971, but it was
originally conceived as the National Cultural Center. It received a boost by the
Eisenhower administration in the 1950s
and by President John F. Kennedy who
galvanized funding in the early 1960s.
After his assassination in 1963,
the center was renamed in Kennedy’s
honor and construction finally began
on a site by the Potomac River.
Groups of 20 to 60 people learn the
history of the nation’s cultural center on
guided tours that last just over an hour.
“Because it is a national memorial in
honor of Kennedy and a performing arts
center, the tour is a mix of both,” said
Brooks Boeke, manager of the Volunteers
and Friends of the Kennedy Center.
Guides cover events related to theater, opera, dance, ballet, symphonic,
chamber and jazz music. The Kennedy
Center is home to the Washington
Photo: Ron Blunt
Explore the arts with The Kennedy Center
Grand Foyer, The Kennedy Center, Washington, D.C.
National Opera and the National Symphony Orchestra.
Tour highlights include the building’s artwork and gifts donated by over
60 countries such as the 3,700 tons
of Carrara marble from Italy lining
interior and exterior walls; hand-carved
wooden doors from Nigeria; and tapestries made from designs by France’s
Henri Matisse and Spain’s Goya. Several
countries gifted elaborate chandeliers
including a Lobmeyr crystal chandelier
from Austria with 2,000 light bulbs
illuminating the Opera House, one of
five theaters viewed on a tour.
“The chandelier really catches the
eye on a tour,” Boeke said. “Groups also
love the flags we have from all countries in the Hall of Nations and from all
states in the Hall of States.”
Tours end with a panoramic view
of the city from the roof terrace. Down
in the Grand Foyer, an arresting sight
is Robert Berks’s 8-foot bronze Bust of
John F. Kennedy.
May 2017 marks the centenary of
Kennedy’s birth. By then, current expansion works will be well underway.
Groups receive priority booking and
may attend free concerts every evening
on the Millennium Stage.
Motorcoaches can drop off and
pick up visitors at the Hall of Nations
entrance. The Group Sales Office will
have updates on parking during the
center’s expansion.S
The Kennedy Center
202-416-8400
kennedy-center.org/visitor
When a new president is elected in November 2016, he or she will join the ranks
of their predecessors at Madame Tussauds
in Washington, D.C., currently the only
place groups can meet all 44 presidents,
or at least, their waxwork likenesses.
“Each Madame Tussauds location
celebrates its home city,” said Therese
Alvich, general manager of Madame
Tussauds Washington D.C., which
opened in 2008. “Being located in the
nation’s capital, Madame Tussauds
celebrates the many leaders and historical icons who have shaped both the
United States and the world. We will be
the first Madame Tussauds location to
welcome the next president.”
Visitors can see how they measure
up against the shortest president,
James Madison at 5 feet 4 inches, or
the tallest, Abraham Lincoln, a whole
foot taller even without the hat. The
Photo: Madame Tussauds Washington D.C.
Meet political figures at Madame Tussauds
Abraham Lincoln waxwork,
presidents are in chronological order in
immersive sets.
Other Washington figures include abolitionists Harriet Tubman and Frederick
Douglass, Watergate-scandal reporter Bob
Woodward and first lady Nancy Reagan. Those less into political figures can
check out Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt,
or Beyoncé and Jennifer Lopez on a
self-guided tour that takes an hour, or
a little longer for diehard selfie lovers.
Three new figures are added each year,
totalling over 100 on display.
Walk-up groups can be accommodated, but groups of 20 or more are
encouraged to pre-book through the
group sales department. Motorcoaches
can drop off visitors on the corner of
10th Street Northwest and F Street
Northwest and use curb-side bus parking at no charge at the 1500 block of Independence Avenue (at the Washington
Monument). A bus parking lot is located
at Union Station with a fee.S
866-823-9569
madametussauds.com/washington
Nov • Dec • Jan
95
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Boeing Milestones of Flight Hall, National Air and Space Museum, Washington, D.C.
the imagination of all who will advance
aerospace into the next century.”
Boeing is underwriting the exhibit,
which will travel to several U.S. cities.
“Art of the Airport Tower” takes
groups on a journey around the globe
to appreciate the beauty and power of
the control tower.
“Through 50 photographs and
companion text labels, the exhibition
interprets airport towers as monumental abstractions, symbols of cultural
expression and testimonies of technological change,” said Carolyn Russo,
photographer and museum specialist.
Learn about the varied forms and
functions of airport towers throughout
Photo: Above and Beyond
Take off on a historical exploration
of flight with the Smithsonian National
Air and Space Museum.
Each year, the National Air and Space
Museum on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., welcomes two temporary
exhibits. This year, those exhibits are
“Above and Beyond” (now through Jan.
3, 2016) and “Art of the Airport Tower”
(Nov. 11, 2015, through November 2016).
“Above and Beyond” celebrates the
ever-developing innovation of flight.
Throughout this exhibit, groups have
the opportunity to immerse themselves in five interactive galleries — Up,
Faster, Higher, Farther and Smarter.
Visitors can simulate designing and
flying supersonic jets, taking an elevator to space and spreading their arms
to experience flight like a bird. Between
activities, groups can learn about historical touchstones, obstacles, visionary
concepts and inspiring stories from the
past and present in the field of flight.
‘“Above and Beyond’ is helping
to spark and capture the interest in
aerospace through fun, hands-on
experiences with the innovation of
flight and wonder of space exploration,” said Jenna McMullin, director of
Boeing Centennial Communications.
“The exhibition is aimed at inspiring
the next generation of pilots, engineers,
astronauts, scientists and innovators —
Photo: Smithsonian Institution
Imaginations take flight at
National Air and Space Museum
Full throttle simulator, National Air and Space Museum, Washington, D.C.
96
aviation history, their significance and
the interconnected role of the air traffic
control community.
Both exhibits, although they vary in
their approach — simulations and art —
teach groups about technological advances
made in the aerospace community.
The museum has transferred its
Apollo Lunar Module to the Boeing
Milestones of Flight Hall, the latest
change to an on-site, two-year renovation. The module was moved from the
east end of the museum and has been
placed in position to create a dramatic
centerpiece for the exhibition.
The Milestones exhibition, which is
the museum’s central and largest space,
has frequently changed during the renovation process, but has stayed open and
will continue to stay open to the public.
The renovation will be completed in time
for the museum’s 40th anniversary in
2016 and will give the hall a streamlined
“21st century” look, featuring themes
and displays suited to today’s visitors.
The museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy
Center is located in Chantilly, Virginia,
near Washington Dulles International
Airport.S
National Air and Space Museum,
Washington, D.C.
202-633-2214
airandspace.si.edu
Washington, D.C.
TO CALL
BO
OK 202/
YOU 292
R G -669
RO
UP 0
VIS
IT!
• TripAdvisor’s 2015 Travelers’ Choice
Top 25 Museums in the U.S.
In Washington, D.C.
www.fords.org/groups
• NTA and Courier magazine’s 2015
“Favorite Museum for Groups”
Reservations: (703) 683-6076
www.dandydinnerboat.com
NEWSEUM.ORG WASHINGTON, D.C.
Nov • Dec • Jan
97
Photo: Fredericton Tourism
EASTERN CANADA Region
Fredericton, New Brunswick cityscape
Fredericton
Good fun, good times and good company
await north of the border
By Mary Lu Laffey
Fredericton is Atlantic Canada’s riverfront capital.
Located on the Saint John River, the largest river
on the Eastern Seaboard, the capital of New Brunswick bustles with character and cultural experiences.
Its tree-lined streets, abundant green space along the
curving river and historic buildings are the yin to the
yang of its high-tech infrastructure.
Fredericton was the first location in Canada to
have a free wireless network. Today, that network via
the citywide Fred-eZone makes it easy to share the
experiences of a group tour in real time.
“Fredericton Tourism welcomes hundreds of
tour groups to New Brunswick’s capital each season,”
said Mary Ellen Hudson, travel trade coordinator
for Fredericton Tourism. “Most tours visit in July
and August, when there is so much to see and do.
The city’s downtown is small and compact with 25
attractions in a 5-block radius. It’s a great place for
groups to explore.”
Some groups follow a costumed guide for a walk98
ing tour of historic downtown, while others investigate an edVenture DIY experience. Groups will be
impressed by the city’s museums, art galleries, craft
shops, farmers market and boutiques.
“Downtown Fredericton Inc. and Fredericton
Tourism offer dining coupons for groups to enjoy
discounts in 24 downtown restaurants,” Hudson
said. “There is free coach parking in the downtown
core as well.”
One of the top attractions for groups is Kings
Landing Historical Settlement. The award-winning
living history village represents life in rural New
Brunswick throughout the 19th century.
“The key elements of this outdoor museum work
together to tell the story of the transition from the
Loyalists to the late Victorians from the 1780s to
1910 and to see how New Brunswick’s early settlers
lived and worked at the time Canada was created,”
Hudson said.
Kings Landing boasts more than 70 historic
EASTERN
CANADA
Region
Fredericton Fencibles
theater group at croquet,
Fredericton, New Brunswick
Changing of the Guard Ceremony,
Kings Landing,
Fredericton, New Brunswick
Labrador
Newfoundland
Québec
Ontario
Prince Edward Island
New
Brunswick
Nova
Scotia
Atlantic
Ocean
Atlantic Canada
p.100
buildings, 120 costumed interpreters and 75,000
artifacts.
At Kings Landing, groups can touch, taste, hear, see
and experience the 1800s in many immersive ways.
Groups witness the bustle of rural farm life firsthand, while listening for creaking wagons pulled by
workhorses, the whooshing of hoop skirts and lively
melodies from fiddlers. Or, groups can take a turn
at churning butter or forging a nail. Be sure to taste
19th-century foodstuffs, too.
“Many groups tour the city with a popular
step-on guide company, the Calthumpians Tour &
Theatre Company,” Hudson said. “For 35-plus years,
they’ve enjoyed working with tour groups, providing
history, humor and entertainment.”
The Calithumpians also perform humorous
and historical productions at the free Theatre-inthe-Park, located at Officers’ Square in the Historic
Garrison District. The square also hosts free outdoor
music concerts featuring some of New Brunswick’s
top performers.
The Garrison District is a two-block area secured
behind a wrought iron and stone fence. The barrier
marks a location dedicated to both the town history
and festivals that celebrate it.
Officers’ Square is located in the district. It hosts
the Changing of the Guard Ceremony — where
flashes of scarlet and a skirl of pipes mark the occasion twice daily during the summer months. Often
a member of a group will be invited to “inspect the
guard.” Free lawn chairs are provided for groups.
In the downtown proper, discover the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, considered one of Canada’s finest.
A gift to the people of New Brunswick from Lord
Beaverbrook, Sir Max Aitken, it features works by
Canadian and international artists including Salvador Dalí.
Dalí’s masterpiece, the 13-by-10-foot (4- by3-meter) Santiago el Grande, and works of art by
members of Canada’s Group of Seven are part of
Ontario
p.102
Québec
p.110
the permanent collection. Beaverbrook offers group
tours and provides opportunities that combine
inquiry-based tours with hands-on art activities.
If activities are on the agenda, consider a croquet
match a la the 19th century at Barracks Square. Players are invited to wear a straw hat.
Excursions on the Saint John and Nashwaak rivers provide opportunities to see the capital from the
water. The rivers are historically significant because
of the Aboriginal, French and early British settlements that date from 300 years past. They also offer
an agreeable ecology for birds, fish and mammals.
Canoe-led or kayak tours are available.
Another option is a Dragon Boat tour that can be
designed with team-building options.
Fredericton hosts a New Brunswick Beer Tour,
Silver Wave Film Festival, the New Brunswick Spirits
Festival and a variety of Christmas craft shows. One
of the favorite festivals is the Fredericton Poutine
Festival, held each November, where visitors can
sample more than 10 poutines. Sugar Bush weekends
at Kings Landing start in March.
Fredericton Tourism includes a Group Tour
Planner on their website. The Group Tour & Travel
department is part of the Economic Development
Tourism and Culture Division for the city
of Fredericton.S
Fredericton Tourism
888-888-4768
tourismfredericton.ca
Nov
• Dec••Mon
Jan
Mon
• Mon
99
99
Itinerary/
ATLANTIC
CANADA
ATLANTIC
CANADA
Photo: Public Domain
Savor Nova Scotia’s rich culinary
and horticulture history
Hall’s Harbour, Nova Scotia
GO
Halifax, Annapolis Valley,
Wolfville, Starr’s Point,
Hall’s Harbour, Annapolis
Royal and Digby
SEE
Grand Pré National Historic Site
902-542-3631
pc.gc.ca
Prescott House Museum
902-542-3984
prescotthouse.novascotia.ca
SHOP
NovaScotian Crystal
902-492-0416
novascotiancrystal.com
ASK
Nova Scotia Tourism
902-798-6777
novascotia.com/travel-trade
Nova Scotia’s rich culinary history dates
back 400 years. Groups find a wide range
of traditional culinary delights from seafood to desserts, like blueberry grunt.
This itinerary, prepared by Nova Scotia
Tourism, starts in Halifax and ends in Digby.
Continue to Wolfville, a university town
with stately trees and heritage homes. The
Environmental Sciences Research Centre
boasts a native botanical garden, greenhouses and a gene bank of Atlantic Region
flora. Overnight in Wolfville.
Day One
Spend the morning visiting Halifax’s
leading attractions: the Maritime Museum
of the Atlantic, the newly renovated Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21
and Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
before heading to nearby Historic Properties, a collection of specialty boutiques,
restaurants and pubs. Watch artisans at
work at NovaScotian Crystal.
Stroll through the Halifax Public
Gardens, a 17-acre Victorian horticultural
masterpiece. It is considered to be the finest
original formal Victorian Public Garden in
North America. The gardens are only steps
away from Spring Garden Road, a premier
shopping district.
Kick off the evening with a visit to
Alexander Keith’s Nova Scotia Brewery, the
oldest working brewery on the continent.
Groups can watch the brewing process and
listen to songs and stories that date to the
1800s. Overnight in Halifax.
Day Three
Begin the day at Blomidon Inn, then
continue to the Prescott House Museum in
Starr’s Point. Both a national and provincial historic site, the museum is a Georgian
house built by the Hon. Charles Ramage
Prescott, credited with introducing better
varieties of apples and helping to establish
the Fruit Growers Association.
Continue to Hall’s Harbour on the upper Bay of Fundy to visit artist studios or
its walking trails. Hall’s Harbour Lobster
Pound offers tours, as well as a restaurant
that serves freshly boiled lobsters at picnic
tables by the water’s edge.
In the afternoon, visit Fox Hill Cheese
Farm, which uses European farmstead
cheese making traditions. Overnight in
Wolfville.
Day Two
Head southwest along the Evangeline Trail for a stop at the Uniacke Estate
Museum Park that features elements of an
18th-century English landscape.
Continue through Annapolis Valley, Atlantic Canada’s richest agricultural region,
where the orchards and rolling farmlands
comprise one of the most celebrated applegrowing regions on the planet.
The area also is home to a growing
number of wineries and vineyards. Many
of which offer guided tours and tastings.
Visit Grand-Pré National Historic Site
and the memorial to the Acadians that
were exiled during the Deportation from
1755 to 1763.
Day Four
Leave for Annapolis Royal.
View the Heritage Tapestry at Fort Anne
National Historic Site. It depicts 400 years
of area history.
At the Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens, tours include10 acres of themed
gardens and collections.
Visit the reconstruction of the Habitation at Port-Royal National Historic Site,
where Samuel de Champlain established
North America’s oldest social club, L’Ordre
de Bon Temps.
The town of Digby overlooks the Annapolis Basin and the Digby Gut, which
opens into the Bay of Fundy. Digby is
homeport of one of North America’s largest scallop fishing fleets and the colorful
scallop-draggers can be viewed on the
waterfront, which is lined with shops, cafes
and restaurants. Overnight in Digby.S
100
Season
ATLANTIC CANADA
Tangled Garden transforms herbs and fruit
Tangled Garden products, Grand Pré, Nova Scotia
Photo: Ruth Daniels
Tangled Garden, Grand Pré, Nova Scotia
to make the drive from
the capital.
McClure had a career
in the restaurant business before her green
thumb took over. She
grew fresh herbs for her
menus, like tarragon and
dill. When she wanted
special vinegar, she’d
grow the herb and make
it herself.
She knew a thing or
two about fresh ingredients and pairing flavors
long before her passion
to infuse jelly, vinegars
and distilled spirits,
or to include herbs in
homemade ice cream,
chutneys, mustards and
jams.
Looking at a jar of
Ginger Lime Time
(jelly), she anticipates
the question and says
that it is made with lemon thyme “for
the edge.”
What about the Strawberry Tarragon
Jelly? McClure recommends serving it
“with toast and a strong cheese.” The
horseradish and apple jelly is reportedly
a crowning glory for a big, juicy burger.
Ask about herbs in vinegar and McClare may suggest Hot Lemon Vinegar
for summer dishes or Hearty Spice
vinegar for cooler weather, and to add
flavor to fall’s more limited bounty.
Not long ago, she started to distill
spirits and infuse them with herbs.
By adding sweet basil to a sweet plum
liqueur, she created “Dazzling Damson
Plum Liqueur.” “Cool Cranberry Liqueur” gets its tang from orange mint.
Passionate Pear Liqueur appears to
include rosemary and a bottle of “Love
Potion Liqueur?” It boasts seeds and
roots.S
Photo: Ruth Daniels
“Nothing is safe,” Beverly McClare said of her
passion for infusing fresh
herbs from her garden
into gourmet foodstuffs.
When McClare, a Nova
Scotian, says the word
“herbs,” she pronounces
the “h.” In the Maritime
Provinces in Canada, they
all do.
McClare owns Tangled
Garden near Grand Pré,
Nova Scotia, where the
rolling hills are reminiscent of southwestern
Wisconsin or the area
along the Mississippi River
in Illinois.
Tangled Garden is
about an hour northwest
of Halifax, the capital
of Nova Scotia, in the
Annapolis Valley. Farms,
large and small, have been
established in the valley
since the 1600s.
The valley has its own microclimate
created by two rivers, two mountain
ranges and its prime location adjacent
to the churning waters of the Bay of
Fundy. It’s an agriculturalist dream
spot for orchards, vineyards and all
varieties of produce.
Annapolis Valley is the third most
important fruit growing area in Canada.
Twenty years ago, McClare and her
partner snapped up 1 acre that she now
calls Tangled Garden. At that time, she
says it was more of a handyman’s special. She has worked on and lived off
the land ever since. She’s not cultivating an orchard, but gardening to grow
herbs and saving the plant materials to
use in her artwork.
Tangled Garden is now 5 chock-ablock acres and sells gourmet handcrafted jelly, jam, chutney, mustard,
vinegar and honey — made with herbs
grown in the garden and fruit from Annapolis Valley.
Herbal beds line winding paths and
divide into separate gardens. There’s
a wildflower labyrinth, a few ancient
fruit trees and benches for visitors or
members of a bridal party.
The shop, production kitchen, gallery
and home were slowly added to the
compound. Customers came, events
started, and in the last five years, Tangled
Garden evolved into an attraction for
tourists interested enough in foodstuffs
Tangled Garden
902-542-9811
tangledgardenherbs.ca
Nov • Dec • Jan
101
Photo: need credit/not supplied
Itinerary/
ONTARIO
ONTARIO
Atrium view, Toronto Eaton Centre
GO
Experience urban delights
and attractions in Toronto
Toronto offers a multitude of opportunities for visiting groups. Identify their
interests and develop a day devoted to feed
those passions.
Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership Corporation developed this four-day
itinerary to see and become part of the
scene in Toronto.
Toronto
SEE
CN Tower
416-868-6937
cntower.ca
Hockey Hall of Fame
416-360-7765
hhof.com
SHOP
Toronto Eaton Centre
416-598-8560
cfshops.ca
ASK
Ontario Tourism Marketing
Partnership Corporation
800-263-7836
ontariotravel.net
Day One
City sights and shopping
Get the big picture of Toronto with
a view from the top — the CN Tower.
Perhaps some of the group will thrill to the
EdgeWalk and scout where the group is going next. Head toward midtown to the Bata
Shoe Museum and see the blue suede shoes
worn by Elvis.
Visit the Hockey Hall of Fame and
touch the Stanley Cup, ice hockey’s most
coveted prize.
The glittering glass galleria of the
Toronto Eaton Centre soars above 230 local and international retailers. Follow the
PATH, an underground walkway that links
17 miles or 28 kilometers of shopping,
services and restaurants.
Hipsters in the group will find a home
on Queen Street West, a haven for the
style-conscious with one-of-a-kind fashion
stores, cafes and clubs. Step back into the
past at the Distillery Historic District, a
19th-century neighborhood that has been
revitalized into a trendy center for arts,
culture, shopping and dining.
Day Two
Hang out in the ’hoods
Toronto’s neighborhoods have their
own character and flair. Immerse the group
in the Mediterranean sounds, sights and
flavors of Greektown, any of six Chinatowns or spend a day in Corso Italia neighborhood that brings Italian culture to life
with colorful cafes, fashion boutiques and
specialty food stores. Be sure to check out
Toronto’s Little India.
Browse the bounty of 120 farmers and
specialty merchants at the St. Lawrence
Market, established in 1803. Perhaps wind
down with a quiet afternoon at Toronto Islands, a car-free green space just a 10-minute ferry ride from downtown.
Day Three
Find a festival
Springtime welcomes the largest garden
festival in the country, Canada Blooms.
Experience Luminato, a 10-day celebration
of arts where the city’s stages and public
spaces come alive with performance art,
music, films and more. Come summertime,
the legends come out at the Toronto Jazz
Festival. Revel in the midsummer rhythms
of Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival, North
America’s largest Caribbean festival.
The stars light up the city every September during the Toronto International Film
Festival. Catch the Royal Horse Show or see
a rodeo competition at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair held in late fall. Toronto’s
top restaurants offer culinary experiences
created exclusively for Winterlicious.
Day Four
Cultural fix
View the impressive European and
Canadian collections at the Art Gallery of
Ontario. Tour the Royal Ontario Museum
with its dramatic architecture and soaring
totem poles. Just across the street, find the
Gardiner Museum, which is dedicated to
ceramic art.
Find big name musicals at the Royal
Alexandra and Princess of Wales theaters,
while Roy Thomson Hall is home to the
Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Reserve
seating for a performance of the ballet or
opera at the Four Seasons Centre for the
Performing Arts.
Grab popcorn for the group before settling in at the TIFF Bell Lightbox, a venue
dedicated the very best in film, both past
and present.S
102
Season
ONTARIO
National Gallery of Canada fosters love of art
Photo: © National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa
The National Gallery of Canada has been preserving,
sharing and making culture since the 1880s.
Known as Musée des beaux-arts de Canada in French, the
Ottawa museum is home to a collection of art with no equal.
It’s esteemed as the most comprehensive collection of Canadian art in the world.
“Groups learn about the National Gallery of Canada, its
collections and its special exhibitions,” said Nathalie Mantha,
acting manager at the National Gallery of Canada. “Our tours
promote careful looking, discussion and the sharing of ideas.
Each group tour focuses on a specific theme, which serves to
guide the group’s discovery of the gallery’s collections.”
Canadian artists Emily Carr, Alex Colville and Paul-Émile
Bourduas are well represented, as are the Group of Seven
landscape painters and artists with First Nations, Métis or
Inuit heritage.
Beyond the country’s art, the National Gallery holds
Canada’s premier collection of European art from the 14th
to the 21st century, as well as important works of American,
Asian and contemporary art.
Museum docents can lead groups through the collections,
present a demonstration or teach a studio experience. Upon
arrival, plan at least 90 to 120 minutes for tours — more time
if lunch is included.
Photo: Group Tour MEdia/David Hoekmanm
Great Hall, National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa
National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa
“Looking at art can enrich our lives,” Mantha said. “A visit
to the National Gallery of Canada can provide enjoyment
and inspiration, while challenging how we see and think.
With our adult tour program, we hope to foster curiosity,
critical thinking and the love of art.”
The group unloading zone and parking are located close
to the museum. Drivers and tour escorts are admitted free of
charge, as are students in grade six and below. Older students are
eligible for general admission and special exhibit discounts.S
National Gallery of Canada
Musée des beaux-arts de Canada
613-990-4888
gallery.ca
Ottawa Little Theatre
“Put a little theatre in your tour!”
 Canada’s oldest theatre company,
operating continuously for 102 years
 Minutes from Parliament Hill, in
the historic Byward Market
 Dinner and show packages
 Theatre tours and Q&As available
 $18 group rate
Call toll free: 1-877-892-0220
OTTAWALITTLETHEATRE.COM
Nov • Dec • Jan
103
ONTARIO
Photo: Bata Shoe Museum, Toronto, Canada/Ron Wood
The Bata Shoe Museum is one of
Toronto’s most surprising destinations.
Groups can step into the “Standing
Tall: Curious History of Men in Heels”
exhibit for the backstory about men
wearing high-heeled shoes and to see
an intriguing collection of men’s footwear through the ages.
“Standing Tall” challenges preconceived notions about who wears heels
and why.
“When heels were introduced into
fashion at the turn of the 17th century,
men were the first to adopt them and
they continued wearing heels as expressions of power and prestige for over
130 years,” said Elizabeth Semmelhack,
senior curator, Bata Shoe Museum.
“Even after they fell from men’s fashion
in the 1730s, there were pockets of time
when heels were reintegrated into the
male wardrobe not as a way of challenging masculinity, but rather as a
Mid-17th-century child’s shoe,
Bata Shoe Museum, Toronto
Discover...
means of proclaiming it.”
While some lifestyles today
continue to accept men dressing in heels — the rugged
cowboy in heeled boots is the
perfect example — for most
men, even an extra inch on a
pair of business brogues can
prove to be highly destabilizing, calling their masculinity
and intentions into question.
But with the advantages of
height currently connected to
everything from higher pay to
increased desirability, the real
question is, why don’t men
wear heels?
Offering rare examples of
men’s heeled footwear from
17th- to mid-19th-century
military boots, 1930s cowboy
boots and 1940s biker boots,
exhibit visitors also have the
opportunity to view John
Lennon’s original 1960s Beatle
boot, platforms worn by Elton
John in the 1970s and recent
heels from haute couture
collections, all from the museum’s own holdings.
Both guided and unguided group
tours are available in the multistory,
architecturally acclaimed building
designed to look like an open shoebox.
Tours must be pre-registered.
The museum is open seven days a
Photo: CreativeCommons/Paul B. Toman
Footwear collection at Bata Shoe Museum
has foothold in history
Bata Shoe Museum, Toronto
week, 363 days per year.
Motorcoach parking is available
nearby.S
Bata Shoe Museum
416-979-7799
batashoemuseum.ca
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104
ONTARIO
Art and architecture draw
groups to Art Gallery of Ontario
Photo: CreativeCommons/John
The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) in
Conservation Stories at the AGO,
Toronto offers special group rates, meal
where behind-the-work stories are
packages and customized services for
shared on a gallery-based tour.
groups visiting the venerable museum
The AGO’s holdings of Canadian
with a contemporary architectural edge.
art is another private tour. It reflects
The contemporary influence is the
11,000 years of visual expressions and
result of an expansion designed by
tradition. This private tour explores the
hometown, internationally acclaimed
works of Inuit, First Nations, historic
architect, Frank
and contempoGehry.
rary Canadian
“The Art Galartists. This tour
lery of Ontario
is organized
is where I first
around themes of
experienced art
memory, power
as a child and it
and myth.
was Grange Park
Other tours
where I played, so
include Conthis project means
temporary Art;
a great deal to
the Collectors’
Art Gallery of Ontario, Grange Park, Toronto
me,” Gehry said.
Stories; The Frum
“The building we
Collection of
envision will connect the city and its
African Art; The Gallery Sampler; Muse,
people to great art and art experiences.”
Mistress, Mother, Model and Maker:
The visible walkways, extensive use
Women in Art; and Where Art Meets
of glass, and views of the city and
Architecture. The latter includes climbGrange Park play to the strengths of
ing the central staircase designed by
the variety of art in the museum’s perGehry from Walker Court to admire the
manent collection and what is shown
cityscape from the sculpture promenade.
during special exhibitions.
On-site dining includes FRANK
Groups have the option of eight
Restaurant.
private gallery tours led by professional
There is a drop-off area at the museart educators, as well as custom tours
um and parking is available nearby.S
designed to speak to the interests of
Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)
the group. Special exhibition tours are
877-225-4246, groups
available only during non-peak periods.
ago.net
Themes for private tours include
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105
ONTARIO
Find five hot spots in Ottawa
of the Parliament Buildings on Parliament Hill, the center of Canadian politics. Make time to stroll the manicured
grounds.
2. Absorb a little culture while touring the National Gallery of Canada. It
is the permanent home to the world’s
best and most comprehensive collection of Canadian art.
Photo: group tour media/David Hoekman
With so much to see and do in Ottawa, the capital of Canada, it’s not
easy paring the list of grand attractions. Each of these five provide an
opportunity for a guided or self-guided
tour, and is definitely an experience for
members of the group to brag about
back home.
1. Enjoy a guided or self-guided tour
Parliament Hill, Ottawa
10 plAyS in FOur THEATrES
Featuring Alice in Wonderland, Sweeney Todd and Our Town
Senior group tickets start at just CAN $41
Jackie Maxwell ArTiSTiC DirECTOr Niagara-ON-The-Lake, ONTariO 2016 SeaSon April TO OCTObEr
SHAWFEST.COM | 1.800.511.7429
Photo illustration for Our Town by Emily Cooper
Reader
Service
Card
#426
Client: Shaw FeStival Publication: Group
tour Guide
Insertion
Date:
November issue Size: 4.75 x 2.25
Contact: BRUCe@KeYGORDON.COM | Key Gordon Communications
Niagara’s
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•Openedin2012
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For reservations call 1-800-263-2565
www.NiagaraFallsWyndham.com
106
3. Canada’s most visited museum is
in Ottawa, the Canadian Museum of
History. Inside, discover the events, experiences, people and objects that have
shaped the country’s history. Note: July
1, 2017, is the date earmarked for the
opening of the Canadian History Hall,
which will tell the story of Canada and
its people from the dawn of human
habitation to the present day.
4. RentABike outfitters provide bike
rentals and tours in the core of the
capital. In Ottawa, there are 106 miles
of recreation pathways free of traffic,
linking natural areas, parks, gardens
and national sites.
5. The Canadian War Museum is a
one-of-a-kind complex that expertly
demonstrates conflict, peacekeeping,
peacemaking and their relationship to
Canadians throughout the world.S
Ottawa Tourism
ottawatourism.ca
ONTARIO
Groups have many ways to experience the beauty and thrills of Niagara
Falls while visiting Ontario.
Niagara Falls is made up of three
waterfalls — the Horseshoe Falls, the
American Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls.
The Canadian side of Niagara Falls
(Horseshoe Falls) is located between
Goat Island and Table Rock.
Groups visiting the Canadian side of
Niagara Falls have many attraction options, made available by Niagara Parks
Commission. One of those options is
the Journey Behind the Falls experience.
Seeing Niagara Falls in person offers
breathtaking views and endless photo
ops, but venturing behind the powerful
falls is an unforgettable experience.
The 30- to 45-minute Journey
Behind the Falls experience is located
at the brink of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls in the Table Rock Welcome
Centre. Visitors descend 150 feet by
Photo: Niagara Parks Commission
View Niagara Falls from a unique perspective
Journey Behind the Falls experience, Niagara Falls
elevator through bedrock. They then
walk through a short tunnel, which
leads to an upper and lower observation deck, where groups can stand right
in the falls’ mist and spray. Groups
will hear a sound similar to thunder
as they observe their surroundings in
awe, with the falls crashing down from
13 stories above. Two portals, located
directly behind the falls, allow visitors
to be one-third of the way behind the
massive sheet of water.
During summer daylight hours, over
99,000 cubic feet (2,800 cubic meters)
of water thunders over the brink every
second, traveling approximately 40
miles per hour.
In spring and summer months, visitors receive a free souvenir: a biodegradable rain poncho to help protect
them from the mist of the falls. Waterproof cameras are recommended.
Journey Behind the Falls is open yearround; winter rates are reduced when
the attraction’s Lower Observation Deck
must be closed due to ice conditions.
The Niagara Parks Commission
offers several attraction packages for
tour groups. Motorcoach parking is
available.S
Journey Behind the Falls,
Niagara Parks Commission
877-642-7275, ext. 2
niagaraparks.com
The Ultimate Falls Experience
• Experience Niagara’s thunder at
Journey Behind the Falls
• Witness the raging Niagara River
at White Water Walk
• Combine awe-inspiring views with
mouth-watering flavours at our
Elements on the Falls Restaurant
Start planning your adventure today
at niagaraparksgroups.com
The Niagara Parks Commission Group Sales Division
5881 Dunn Street, Niagara Falls, Ontario Canada
P (905) 371-0254 ext. 2 TF 1-877-642-7275 ext. 2
F (905) 356-8448 E groups@niagaraparks.com
Nov • Dec • Jan
107
ONTARIO
A center for northern Ontario tours,
greater Sudbury is the largest community in the area. It boasts 330 lakes
within city limits. Lake Wanapitei and
Ramsey Lake are the two largest citycontained lakes in North America.
And along the shores of Ramsey
Lake, Science North is Northern Ontario’s most popular tourist destination. Its
attractions — a science center, IMAX
theater, digital planetarium, butterfly
gallery, special exhibitions hall, 4-D Vale
Cavern show and Dynamic Earth —
delight thousands of visitors each year.
Scientists and communicators lead
Science North’s interactive exhibits and
care for live ambassador animals. Their
presentations are in both English and
French.
“At Science North, we want visitors to be inspired and excited about
the science that is all around them,”
said Erin O’Neill, senior manager of
108
Photo: Greater Sudbury Tourism
Science North to welcome new exhibits
Big Nickel, Dynamic Earth, Science North, Sudbury
marketing at Science North. “And our
bluecoats, who are trained scientists,
make sure that visitors have a handson, interactive experience and can take
their newfound knowledge with them,
wherever they go.”
Explore the geological story of
planet Earth, including the rare geology
and rich mining heritage of northern
Ontario at Dynamic Earth — home of
the Big Nickel.
Don’t leave without watching a planetarium show. State-of-the-art digital technology brings groups through galaxies
and to the outer extremities of the known
universe. The planetarium features films
projected on an 8.4-meter dome.
“We’re excited to bring some exceptional new exhibitions in 2016 to
Science North, including ‘Imaginate,’ in
partnership with the Ontario Science
Centre, opening in February and running through April,” O’Neill said.
“Wild Weather,” an original international traveling exhibition developed
by Science North, will follow “Imaginate.” It’ll make its worldwide debut
from June through September.
“And at Dynamic Earth, we are
thrilled to bring in ‘Megaladon: the
Largest Shark that Ever Lived,’ in
partnership with the Florida Museum
of Natural History, in March through
September,” O’Neill said. “And, if
that weren’t exciting enough, we are
launching a new outdoor science park
at Dynamic Earth in July 2016, which is
sure to become a group favorite.”S
Science North
705-522-3701, ext. 0
sciencenorth.ca
ONTARIO
Bravo! Groups take a bow at Stratford Festival
Photo: Stratford Festival/Richard Bain
For more than 50 years, the Stratford Festival in Stratford has presented
Shakespeare’s plays and examined the
work of other classical and contemporary playwrights.
The productions are presented in
four different venues, including the
1,826-seat Festival Theatre, the 1,090seat Avon Theatre, the 480-seat Tom
Patterson Theatre and the more intimate 260-seat Studio Theatre.
Tours of the properties offer a different insider’s view to present a close-up
look at the craftsmanship and magic
that go into creating Stratford’s season.
Depending on the performance
schedule and day of the week, there are
several group tour experiences available to groups. These include a tour
Photo: Stratford Festival/Erin Samuell
Audience arrives, Stratford Festival, Stratford
Costume fitting with designer Dana Osborne and
actor Ben Carlson, Stratford Festival, Stratford
AFTER THE
VICTORY
OUR 2016 SEASON
of a production-related exhibit at the
Stratford Perth Museum. The Warehouse Tour provides a glimpse of the
costumes and props used in performances; groups are encouraged to try
on costumes and take photos.
During the Festival Theatre Tour,
groups can discover how a show is
staged. The Changeover Tour includes
a crew to demonstrate how the magic
happens during a production.
A stop in the archives provides
highlights of Stratford’s history and includes rare films, photographs, scenery
and props. Programs such as private
talks, Q&A sessions with actors or artists, and workshops can be arranged for
groups.
Most tours are one hour with the
exception of a 45-minute garden tour
of the Festival Theatre’s landscaped
grounds. The tour includes stops in
the Elizabethan Garden and the Arthur
Meighen Gardens. Friends of the
Festival, a Stratford-based volunteer
organization, lead the tours.
Pre-ordered meal options at the
Festival Theatre Café are available for
a light lunch or dinner — as are snacks
from the theater bars at the Festival,
Avon and Studio theaters. A picnic
menu is available for advance orders.
A motorcoach drop-off area is available with free parking nearby.S
Stratford Festival
800-567-1600
stratfordfestival.ca
PLUS SEVEN OTHER EXCITING PRODUCTIONS
Book Your Group Now! | 1.800.567.1600 or 519.273.1600 | stratfordfestival.ca/groups
Nov • Dec • Jan
109
Longhouse design of Hôtel-Musée
Premières Nations, Wendake
GO
Wendake
SEE
Huron-Wendat Museum
418-847-2260
tourismewendake.ca/musee
Onhoüa Chetek8e
Traditional Huron Site
418-842-4308
huron-wendat.qc.ca
Hotel-Musée Premières
Nations of Wendake
866-551-9222
tourismewendake.ca/hotel
ASK
Québec City Tourism
877-783-1608
quebecregion.com/en/travel-trade
Tourism Wendake
418-847-1835
tourismewendake.ca
First Nations hospitality
awaits in Wendake
A group tour to Wendake provides an
authentic experience in the Huron-Wendat
Nation culture.
Only 15 minutes from downtown Québec City, Wendake dazzles with the richness
of its culture, the warmth of its people,
and the beauty of its natural surroundings.
Québec City Tourism developed this tour
of nearby Wendake.
tribute to Wendake’s cultural heritage and
attractions. It depicts the people’s journey
from ancestral times to the present day
using the Huron and other First Nations
myths and legends.
Wendake also is home to a thriving
community of artists and artisans. Local
galleries and arts and crafts shops feature a
broad range of traditional and contemporary creations.
Day One
Huron-Wendat cultural and history
Day Two
Take a walk through historic Old WenKabir Kouba Falls
dake, the home of Notre-Dame-de-Lorette
Magnificent Kabir Kouba Falls plunges
Church and its treasures. Construction
through a canyon near the center of town.
of the original
A visit to the
church began in
Interpretation
1730. It was desigCentre of Parc
nated a National
de la Falaise et
Historic Site by
de la chute Kabir
Heritage Canada
Kouba provides
in 1981.
an opportunity to
No visit to
learn more about
Wendake would
the geological
be complete withand human hisout a stop at the
tory of this wonOnhoüa Chetek8e
der of nature.
Onhoüa Chetek8e Traditional Huron Site, Wendake
Traditional Huron
AdventurSite. This authenous diners will
tic reconstruction of a Huron village is a
not want to miss a taste of Huron-Wendat
window onto the history, traditions, and
dishes. Experience warm First Nation
way of life of the Huron-Wendat Nation.
hospitality and admire the architecture that
Reach out and discover the story of
was designed to be reminiscent of a long
the chiefs who have lived in Tsawenhohi
house.
House. Located in Old Wendake, this house
For a truly outstanding cultural experiwas built between 1807 and 1820 for Grand
ence, Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations
Chief Nicolas Tsawenhohi Vincent. The
welcomes groups to a remarkable stay
house is classified as a heritage site by the
overlooking Rivière Saint-Charles. The
Council of the Huron-Wendat Nation.
four-star hotel is a tribute to the Inuit and
The house now features guided tours,
First Nations. Free outdoor motorcoach
craft demonstrations, an exhibition of
parking is available.
cultural objects, a display of archaeologiExplore the rich history of the Huroncal artifacts from the site, a multimedia
Wendat Nation at the Huron-Wendat Mupresentation and more.
seum. In the evening, a storyteller recounts
The Mural of the Wendat People pays
a world of myths and legends.S
Photo: Pierre-Olivier Fortin/Creative commons
Photo: Jean Desy/Quebec City Tourism
Itinerary/
QUéBECQUéBEC
110
Season
QUéBEC
Rendezvous with ecotourism in Saguenay
Just north of Québec City, groups
can discover the only navigable fjord
on the continent. For centuries, the
62-mile long Saguenay fjord and its
surrounding waters lured explorers and
navigators.
Today, outdoor enthusiasts explore
Lake Saint-Jean, the Saguenay River
and journey into the boreal forest accessible from their shorelines.
Along the cycling, hiking and tour
routes, find les bleuets or blueberries.
The region is famous for the berries,
both fresh and chocolate-covered, as
well as Peron cheddar cheese.
On land
Cycling and cycling tours are quite
popular and can be strenuous in this
part of Québec. The annual 6-milelong Main Street Food Fest, part of the
Traversee Internationale du Lac SaintJean swimming race in July, provides
plenty of fuel for those riding all or
part of the Veloroute des Bleuets that
includes 15 cities around the lake.
Ville Saguenay is the seventh largest
municipality in the province. Named a
Québec Original by Tourism Québec,
the city developed into three districts:
Chicoutimi, Jonquiere and La Baie.
Chicoutimi
In the heart of the city, Chicoutimi
is home to a number of festivals, including REGARDO, the International
Short Film Festival, the Festival Jazz et
Bleues and the Festival International
des Rythmes du Monde. Popular spirits
events happen in the area as well;
these include the Festival des bieres du
monde and the Festival des vins.
Photo: Christian Savard/Québec Original
On water
Sign up for a water tour of the fjord;
the maritime shuttle makes stops between La Baie and Tadoussac. Because
the fjord is an estuary for the river,
whales often can be spotted.
Tours Aventure Fjord et Monde
offers a variety of guided tours by
ship and on land, including Saguenay
National Park, several villages and the
districts of the city.
Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay
Groups can visit the historical site
of La Pulperie de Chicoutimi and the
Petite Maison Blanche that withstood
the 1996 flood.
Histoire d’un Royaume, on stage during
July and August. Other festivities attract groups to the wharf, where cruise
shops provide an exciting atmosphere.
In August, the Festival les Grandes
Veillees highlights traditional music.
In winter, the fjord becomes an ice
fishing kingdom with up to 1,600 huts
installed on the frozen water; outfitters
provide rental huts as well as gear for
other winter sports.
Whatever the season, the Tourism
Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean can help to
arrange tour group preferences.S
Jonquiere District
Spend free time lingering in one of the
coffee shops along Saint-Dominique Street
or shop the boutiques that line the area.
Highlights of the Jonquiere district
including the Parc of Riviere-auxsables, the Centre national d’exposition
(CNE) and the Price Memorial Park.
The aluminum bridge that crosses the
Saguenay River is a National Historical
Site of Civil Engineering. Jonquiere offers a range of restaurants, lodging and
a public beach at Kenogami Lake.
Tourism Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean
877-253-8387
saguenaylacsaintjean.ca
La Baie
La Baie District is famous for its
theatrical presentation of La Fabuleuse
Tours aventure Fjord et Monde
418-290-8687
fjordenligne.com
Nov • Dec • Jan
111
Colm Quilligan,
founder of Literary Pub Crawl,
Dublin, Ireland
Cheer, beer
and literature
Guinness and Joyce await in Dublin
By Mary Lu Laffey
The two of them in their bowlers
looked like a pair of blokes from a ’50s
film noir, casting their eyes on whoever
was making their way to join them.
Our group met the two in a pub
located on Duke Street, just off Grafton
Street in Dublin.
During the next 2 ½ hours, actor
Colm Quilligan and his partner-intheatrics for the evening, Frank Smith,
would morph into literary personas
using accessories and anecdotal history
to present the personalities of Ireland’s
most famous writers. And they would
do so in five stops on the Dublin Literary Pub Crawl.
The opportunity to visit a number
of Irish pubs without the dreaded
decision to step or not to step inside
112
a strange place eased my decision to
choose this tour option. Being escorted
by two Irish actors portraying Irish
literary legends made the prospect only
more appealing. Plus, the 16 of us in
the group were told that if we kept our
minds open, we could learn a thing
or two during this tour that touted an
evening of cheer, beer and literature.
A city of lit
The greater Dublin area is home to
nearly 2 million residents. It lies on
Ireland’s east coast at the mouth of
the River Liffey at the Irish Sea. Often
named one of the top cities in the
world, it is home to three universities.
The University of Dublin dates to the
16th century. There is Trinity College
established in 1592 by Elizabeth I and
the Dublin Institute of Technology
plus many specialized schools of higher
education from medical to economics.
In 2010, UNESCO named Dublin
“A City of Literature” in honor of her
great legacy of authors, playwrights,
historians and journalists.
Dublin has produced many respected
literary figures, including Nobel laureates William Butler Yeats, George Bernard Shaw and Samuel Beckett, as well
as influential writers and playwrights
like Oscar Wilde, Jonathan Swift and
the creator of Dracula, Bram Stoker.
Dublin is arguably most famous as the
location of the greatest works of author
James Joyce, including Ulysses, which is
set in Dublin.
Top Photo: Dublin Regional Tourism Authority
It was in the year 800 that Irish
monks transcribed the Bible into an art
form, creating The Book of Kells. The
Book of Kells is displayed at Trinity College, not six blocks from where we were
gathered on our tour.
Establishing cheer came a century
later in 1750, when Guinness first
brewed beer.
Tour stop,
Trinity College,
Dublin, Ireland
Photo: ©istockphoto.com/kulicki
Photo: Dublin Regional Tourism Authority
The crawl
Quilligan told us he has led literary pub
crawls in Dublin for more than 20 years.
“There’s nothing else like it,” he said
as I thumbed through his book, Dublin
Literary Pub Crawl Book — A guide to
the pubs of Dublin. His book chronicles
the walks and talks that he has given,
and explores the idea behind the pub,
the poet and the pint.
Davy Byrnes Pub was the first stop
on the tour. Founded in 1889, it became and remains a literary institution.
Davy Byrnes was used as a scene in
Joyce’s epic, Ulysses. His main character, Leopold Bloom, described it as
a “nice quiet bar.” It still is, only a bit
more upscale. This pub also was a favorite of poet and playwright Brendan
Behan, whose wit could crumble those
around him.
O’Neill’s Pub is the largest on the
tour. The group was charged with
finding a drawing of four Irish authors
among a great number of framed
works on the walls. Walking about
sipping my cider, I didn’t have any
luck, but a Canadian member of the
group did; he spotted the pen and
ink drawing in a corner snug. The
artwork depicted Patrick Kavanagh,
William Butler Yeats, Sean O’Casey and
Flann O’Brien, the pen name of Brian
O’Nolan, an Irish Times columnist and
novelist.
We paused on the campus of Trinity
College for a few words and stories
about Oscar Wilde and present-day
Irish authors.
On our way to The Old Stand, a
300-year-old pub that has been around
in one incarnation or another since
the days of the Vikings, we passed the
Tourist Office. It is located in a former
church, St. Andrew’s.
In modern history The Old Stand
was popular with political types including Michael Collins, who reportedly used the pub to hold informal
meetings of the Irish Republican
Brotherhood.
Today it is more like a sports bar
with close ties to rugby and is reportedly the pub to watch games when
visiting Dublin.
The tour ended back at Davy Byrnes
Pub with the presentation of a T-shirt
prize for a trivia quiz about Irish authors. A couple from Canada won; they
would return home with a tangible
prize to display when touting their
“pub crawl” experience in Dublin.S
Dublin Literary Pub Crawl
Dublinpubcrawl.com
Visit Dublin
visitdublin.com
Founded in 1782, a James Joyce favorite,
John Mulligan Pub, Dublin, Ireland
Tourism Ireland
ireland.com
Nov • Dec • Jan
113
On tour
Follow Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way
Galway City to the Aran Islands
ing a ferry to the ancient Aran Islands.
Groups can then return to Galway for
another day or days of adventure.
Downpatrick Head Cliffs,
Wild Atlantic Way,
County Clare, Ireland
Galway City to Rossaveal
Galway City is geographically half the
distance of the Wild Atlantic Way route
and is an excellent stopping off, starting or staying point. Literary festivals,
horse racing festivals and music festivals
happen throughout the year, making a
group visit lively.
Galway’s location puts it in prime
position for some amazing day trips,
such as a visit to the fascinating Aran
Islands. As a day trip, groups experience
the island and get back to Quay Street in
time for dinner, a pint of local craft beer
and a live session of traditional music.
(Editor’s note: The views along the
west coast rival the rugged landscapes and
surf-tossed shorelines found along the Pacific Coastal Highway in
California and Spain’s famed la Costa Brava.)
Photo: Tourism Ireland
At 1,500 miles, the Wild Atlantic Way
is the longest coastal route on the planet.
It hugs the western coast of Ireland from
County Cork in the south through Clare
to Galway, and beyond to Donegal in the
northwest.
Using the bohemian city of Galway on
Ireland’s west coast as a base, groups can
explore one of Ireland’s most intriguing areas via the Wild Atlantic Way and
beyond on the storied Galway Bay.
At one time, Galway was ruled by 14
tribe families, whose cooperation made
the city an industrial and financial success. Their legacy continues, as Galway
remains a thriving destination with a
university, cathedral and plenty of historical attractions, plus a list of colorful
festivals and events. Its pedestrian streets
are a boon for shoppers.
This itinerary first circles Galway Bay,
a romantic location whose sunsets were made famous in song
by crooner Bing Crosby. More recently it is often included on a
program for Celtic Woman.
Using suggestions from this itinerary from Tourism Ireland, groups can visit charming seaside towns before boardCycling,
Aran Islands, Ireland
114
Photo: Tourism Ireland
Departing west around the bay, passing through Salthill (next time stop for
the promenade) and Spiddal, brings
the group into the Gaeltacht or Irishspeaking area of Galway.
Rossaveal is a Gaeltacht village with
a strong fishing heritage. Its Irish name
“Ros an Mhíl” roughly translates as
peninsula of the whale/sea monster.
It’s also the main ferry port to access
the Aran Islands. Slightly north of the
village is a Martello Tower or a small
defensive, tower-like fort. Built in the
19th century to watch for potential
French invaders, the Martello provides
a view of the passage to the islands.
Continue to Dun Aengus, which is
considered the best example of the prehistoric forts on Inis Mór (Inishmore).
Though its build date is unknown,
experts estimate it was during the 2nd
century B.C.E.
Aran Islands
The three Aran Islands sit in Galway
Bay and represent all that is true of
the west of Ireland. Aran jumpers or
sweaters are made on Inis Meáin (Inishmaan); Dun Aengus (Dún Aonghasa
in Irish) is a prehistoric defensive fort
on Inis Mór (Inishmore); and Inis
Galway City, Ireland
Oírr (Inisheer) has a similar limestone
landscape to the Burren — all three are
worth a visit in their own right.
(Editor’s note: Be sure to check the day’s
forecast and with the ferry company as sailings can be affected by the weather.)
Return to Galway City
A stop in Spiddal in this Gaeltacht
area provides an opportunity for the
group to speak Irish or at least hear it
spoken. Residents in Gaeltacht villages
speak only Irish.
Cliff near Dun Aengus,
one of the Aran Islands,
Ireland
Photo: ©istockphoto.com/hipokrat
Stop in Rossaveal
Use hello, “Dia dhuit” [pronounced
“dia-gwitch”] to start off. Locals will be
very pleased by the effort.
Each summer Spiddal hosts hundreds of Irish students so they can
improve their Irish language skills.
Ceardlann, the village craft and
design center, is a great spot to find authentic Irish-made gifts and a nosh. The
cafe’s cakes are simply mouthwatering.
Then it’s back to the bright city lights
of Galway where any number of exciting events could be taking place.S
GO
Aran Islands, Galway City,
Rossaveal and Spiddal
SEE
Salthill
salthill.com
Aran Islands
aranislands.ie
Photo: ©istockphoto.com/Alberto Loyo
SHOP
Ceardlann, Spiddal Craft
and Design Studios
spiddalcrafts.com
ASK
Tourism Ireland
ireland.com
Nov • Dec • Jan
115
Gaming
Guide
116
MotorCity Casino Hotel ............................... p.117
Mohegan Sun .........................................................p.118
Resorts Casino Hotel ....................................... p.120
Seneca Resorts & Casinos .......................... p.121
Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort ............ p.122
Presque Isle Downs & Casino ..................p.124
Potawatomi Hotel & Casino .....................p.125
Detroit, Michigan
Motorcity casino hotel
Your next group adventure starts
here.
Whether you’re planning a day trip
in the city or a night out on the town,
MotorCity Casino Hotel offers a variety of customizable packages perfect for
your group. Enjoy complimentary onsite motorcoach parking, luxury hotel
accommodations with a free room for
the group leader, complimentary Wi-Fi
throughout the property, and 24-hour
fitness and business centers.
Casino Hotel’s AAA Four Diamond
Award-winning restaurant with breathtaking views of the city.
PLAY
With the hottest gaming action in
town and nightly live entertainment
at Chromatics Lounge, your group is
sure to have a good time at MotorCity
Casino Hotel, conveniently located in
the heart of downtown Detroit.
STAY
EAT
After a full day of fun and exciteBecause you can’t party or play on an
ment, get a good night’s sleep at
empty stomach, we offer a wide range
MotorCity Casino Hotel, a AAA Four
of dining options. Grab a quick bite
Diamond Award-winning hotel. With
at The Grand River Deli, Pit Stop, or
400 luxurious rooms, including 33 spaLittle Caesars. Or soak in some of Decious suites, everyone in your group is
troit’s rich history at The Lodge Diner.
sure to be well rested and ready to take
7.25 in.
And don’t miss Iridescence, MotorCity
on whatever events the next day brings.
RELAX
Wind down at D.Tour, a luxurious
13,000-square-foot spa offering unique
and rejuvenating treatments. If you’re
the leader of a qualifying group, bring
the spa offer on this page to redeem
your FREE 50-Minute MotorCity
Music Massage. Call for details. Restrictions apply.
With all MotorCity Casino Hotel has
to offer, you’ll have a hard time getting
them back on the bus. To book your
group event now, call us at 866-7404321, visit MotorCityCasino.com or
send us an email at tourandtravel@
mccemail.com.S
MotorCity Casino Hotel
866-740-4321
tourandtravel@mccemail.com
motorcitycasino.com
JUST FOR GROUP
LEADERS !
4.75 in.
Experience a FREE MotorCity Music Massage*
As a thank you for bringing your group to MotorCity
Casino Hotel, we’re offering our group leaders a FREE
50-minute signature massage at our luxurious spa, D.Tour!
Simply book your reservations, bring your tour group and
then relax in the spa while your group enjoys all the fun
and excitement that MotorCity Casino Hotel has to offer.
To book your group, call (866) 740-4321.
Or visit MotorCityCasino.com.
*Not valid on Tuesdays or holidays. Offer is based on availability. Blackout dates apply. Treatment must take place
during the group’s overnight visit to MotorCity Casino Hotel. One treatment offer per group with 10 or more rooms. Offer
expires December 30, 2016. Certain restrictions apply. Must present offer at check-in. Offer is not valid with any other
promotions. One “Spa offer” per group. Must use the Spa certificate while group is in-house. Group leader must be
indicated on the rooming list provided to MCCH.
MotorCity Casino Hotel and MotorCity Casino Hotel design are
trademarks of Detroit Entertainment, L.L.C. ©2015 Detroit
Entertainment, L.L.C. All rights reserved.
Nov • Dec • Jan
117
Uncasville, Connecticut
Mohegan Sun, Uncasville
The weather may be cooling down,
but things are just heating up at
Mohegan Sun, boasting incredible
nightclubs, bars and lounges, including
Avalon, The Lansdowne Irish Pub &
Music House, BALLO Italian Restaurant, VISTA Lounge and MIST. Mohegan Sun is an unmatched destination
for an evening of great entertainment
in Connecticut. Private functions and/
or VIP seating are available in each of
Photo: Mohegan Sun
Mohegan Sun is one of the largest
and most spectacular entertainment,
gaming, dining and nightlife destinations on the East Coast. Conveniently
located along the banks of the Thames
River in southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is just a short picturesque
drive from Hartford, New York City
and Boston.
Mohegan Sun radiates excitement
every night as celebrated stars light
up its stages with electrifying performances. Named one of the world’s top
arenas, the 10,000-seat Mohegan Sun
Arena hosts major acts including Bruce
Springsteen, Billy Joel, New Kids on the
Block and more. If you’re looking for
something more intimate, the Wolf Den
offers free nightly entertainment by top
performers such as Andy Grammer and
Eddie Money, and The Cabaret Theatre showcases headlining artists, live
productions, special events and more
providing an intimate atmosphere for
an enhanced entertainment experience.
Whether it’s a quick bite, a casual
lunch with friends or a savory meal at
a gourmet restaurant, nothing is left to
chance with over 30 dining options at
Mohegan Sun. Guests will find a wide
array of world-class dining experiences,
from celebrity restaurateurs and gourmet meals to burgers and fries.
Photo: Mohegan Sun
mohegan sun
River Blue Sculpture, Uncasville
118
the venues.
When the day is done and you’re
ready to kick up your feet, Mohegan
Sun’s hotel accommodations are nothing less than extraordinary. Standing
34 stories tall with 1,200 guest rooms
and suites, the hotel at Mohegan Sun
has been expertly designed to set a
new standard of excellence. Measuring a minimum of 450 square feet,
each room contains a luxurious bed
with plush bedding and linens, relaxing lounge chairs and spacious marble
bathrooms.
Kick your stay up a notch with a visit
to Elemis Spa at Mohegan Sun. Scenic
views soothe the mind and body as
you indulge in deluxe treatments and
services, including massage and facial
therapies, a full-service beauty salon, a
3,000-square-foot fitness center and a
10,000-square-foot indoor swimming
pool.
For more information, visit mohegansun.com or call 877-226-7711.S
Mohegan Sun
877-226-7711, groups
mohegansun.com
FULL OF POSSIBILITIES.
FULL OF LIFE.
Sign your group up for a
bus charter now.
BONUS $30 CASINO INCENTIVE PACKAGE* Monday – Friday Package
consists of: One $15 Meal/Retail Credit and One $15 Free Bet Coupon
Meal/Retail credit can be used in any restaurant, buffet or shop at
Mohegan Sun.
BONUS $25 CASINO INCENTIVE PACKAGE* Saturday – Sunday Package
consists of: One $15 Meal/Retail Credit and One $10 Free Bet Coupon
Meal/Retail credit can be used in any restaurant, buffet or shop at
Mohegan Sun.
Group Leaders receive an additional $30 PACKAGE
For more information on Day or Overnight Charters, please contact Stephen
Olender at 860.862.8988, email at solender@mohegansun.com
or visit mohegansun.com/charter.
*In order to receive package, bus group must stay for a
minimum of 5 hours. Additional incentive packages available
to participating line run carriers. Packages subject to change
without notice. Bonus packages are issued to individuals 21
years of age or older. To receive a casino bonus package,
passengers must have a Momentum card or be able to sign
up for a Momentum card on day of travel. Proper identification
required. Please visit the Bus Marketing Window for official
rules. Offer subject to change without notice. mohegansun.com
Nov • Dec • Jan
119
Atlantic City, New Jersey
The resort that brought gaming to
Atlantic City in 1978, Resorts Casino
Hotel is at the top of its game today,
offering world-class casino action in a
relaxed environment that keeps the focus
on fun. Resorts Casino Hotel made history as the first American casino outside
of Nevada. It celebrated its 35th anniversary in May 2013 with a new milestone:
a $35-million Margaritaville casino and
entertainment complex by Jimmy Buffett
that includes, among other attractions,
the only full-service, year-round, on-thebeach bar in Atlantic City.
Enjoy luxurious ocean view rooms,
and indoor/outdoor pool giving you
the summer feel 365 days a year, awardwinning dining and so much more.
Throughout the past 32 years, Resorts has
become synonymous with superior service, world-class casino gambling, luxurious accommodations and fine dining.
Photo: Resorts Casino
resorts casino hotel
Situated on 11 acres of land with
approximately 310 feet of Boardwalk
frontage overlooking the Atlantic Ocean,
Resorts offers guests 942 hotel rooms
and suites in two hotel towers: the
oceanfront 15-story Ocean Tower and
the 27-story luxury Rendezvous Tower.
The 99,951-square-foot casino at Resorts
Casino Hotel features non-stop excite-
ment and action 24 hours a day at more
than 80 table games and more than 2,500
slot machines.
In addition to the casino and hotel facilities, Resorts includes a 1,350-seat showroom, a 300-seat theater, six restaurants,
two VIP slot and table player lounges,
an indoor-outdoor swimming pool, two
lounges, a salon, a health club and spa, and
retail shops. Resorts also offers approximately 39,000 square feet of convention
facilities, including seven meeting rooms
and a 13,000-square-foot ballroom.
The fun is here! From the worldrenowned sandy, white beaches to the
hottest action in AC on our casino floor,
Resorts is all about having fun.S
Resorts Casino Hotel
800-772-9000
888-771-1786, motorcoach marketing
resortsac.com
RESORTS CASINO HOTEL
IN ATLANTIC CITY
ENJOY SUMMER ALL YEAR ROUND!
Enjoy the hottest slots and table games, Atlantic City’s largest
standard rooms, exceptional dining, retail shopping and great
entertainment! The fun is here at Resorts Casino Hotel in Atlantic
City!
ARRIVE FOR
THE DAY OR AN
OVERNIGHT STAY!
Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville entertainment complex featuring a
year-round LandShark Bar & Grill on the beach, new Margaritaville
restaurant just off the casino floor, themed Margaritaville slot area,
retail shops & more.
Contact Meg Lewis at 609-340-7715
for booking and for more information.
YOU CAN ALSO EARN & USE
YOUR COMP DOLLARS AT
/ResortsAC
ResortsAC.com
1.800.772.9000
Bet with your head not over it. Gambling Problem? Call 1.800.GAMBLER.
120
Western New York State
When taking to the road for a fun and
memorable trip, Seneca Resorts & Casinos have perfected the resort experience.
Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino
is just minutes away from worldfamous Niagara Falls. Feel the rush
of excitement across the resort’s
147,000-square-foot gaming floor, with
more than 3,600 slot machines and
90 table games. STIR, a high-energy
Allegany Resort & Casino has activifeature bar, creates a focal point of
ties for every season. Inside, it’s always
activity and excitement with hot live
time to play at Seneca Allegany, home
performances, a massive 40-foot video
to more than 2,000 state-of-the-art slot
wall, and a large, inviting dance floor.
machines and 33 table games. SurTake advantage of Niagara Falls State
rounded by the natural beauty of the
Park, explore the nearby Niagara Wine
Allegheny Mountains, you can ski, golf,
Trail, experience the Niagara Culinary
or seek thrills in nearby Ellicottville, go
Institute, shop the day away at the
hiking, camping or snowmobiling in
Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls, or
scenic Allegany State Park, or enjoy a
enjoy a round of championship golf at
host of other nearby activities.
Seneca Hickory Stick Golf Course.
Each resort is home to a wide
Farther south in Salamanca, Seneca
SGC - Group Tour Magazine Print Ad | GET AWAY | 7.25” w x 4.75” h
Photo: seneca resorts & Casinos
Seneca resorts & casinos
selection of outstanding restaurants
to satisfy every craving, and a Four
Diamond-rated luxury hotel, complete
with upscale amenities and unmatched
comfort. Feel your cares melt away
with a visit to the spa and salon, offering a full array of massage, manicure,
pedicure and hairstyling services.
Seneca Resorts & Casinos offers travel
groups special rates, lucrative incentives
and overnight packages. The resorts are
open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
For more information, visit seneca
casinos.com or contact Bus Group Sales
at 1-877-449-0287 or motorcoachsales@
senecacasinos.com to book your escape
today.S
Seneca Resorts & Casinos
877-449-0287, bus group sales
motorcoachsales@senecacasinos.com
senecacasinos.com
GET AWAY & SETTLE IN
ESCAPE TO WESTERN
NEW YORK’S BEST-KEPT SECRET
EXPERIENCE THE WONDER
JUST STEPS FROM NIAGARA FALLS
FIND YOURSELF IN THE HEART
OF THE ACTION DOWNTOWN
AT SENECA NIAGARA RESORT & CASINO
AT SENECA BUFFALO CREEK CASINO
AT SENECA ALLEGANY RESORT & CASINO
• More than 3,600 Slots and 100 Tables
• More than 800 Slots and
20 Table Games
• More than 2,000 Slots and 30 Tables
• Only Resort in the Northeast
Voted “Best Casino Outside of
Las Vegas” by USA TODAY Travel
• Minutes from the Majestic
Niagara Falls
• AAA Four Diamond Accommodations
• All your Buffalo Favorites at
Buffalo Savors Grill
• Right in the Heart of Downtown
Buffalo just a Few Blocks from
HARBORCENTER
• Voted “Best Casino” and “Best Comps”
by Readers of Casino Player Magazine
• Picturesque Surroundings
• AAA Four Diamond Accommodations
OVERNIGHT HOTEL GROUP RATES AVAILABLE AT SENECA NIAGARA AND SENECA ALLEGANY RESORT & CASINO
Contact Bus Group Sales at MotorCoachSales@SenecaCasinos.com. To book your day trip,
call 1-877-433-8287; or for an overnight group, call 1-877-449-0287.
1-877-8-SENECA | SenecaCasinos.com
SNC-10335 GroupTMagAd_GETAWAY_7.25x4.75_M REV.indd 1
9/16/15 4:58 PM
Nov • Dec • Jan
121
Mount Pleasant, Michigan
Lily Lounge and enjoy drinks, appetizers
and more. And don’t forget to explore
Nbakade family restaurant (located at
our Waterpark) where you can enjoy
traditional fry bread pizza and daily specials. The menu of excitement, however,
doesn’t end with the food.
When it comes to the best in live
entertainment, Soaring Eagle Casino &
Resort is the place to be — where every
seat is close to the action. You won’t
find a better place to check out out the
biggest names in music, comedy and
more. And if you have kids, Soaring
Eagle Properties can make you a rock
star to your family.
Photo: Soaring Eagle Properties
Name your escape. Soaring Eagle
Properties has it all. From a magnificent
hotel to an action-packed casino, this is
more than a place. It’s a luxurious state
of mind: one filled with a family-friendly waterpark, executive golf course,
inspiring dining options, top-name
entertainment, RV-park and more.
At Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort,
the perfect getaway is just around every
corner. This is a resort experience
where you can indulge with in-room
Jacuzzis and fireplaces. Rejuvenate your
mind, body and spirit at a world-class
spa. Experience the tranquility of an
Italian-tiled indoor pool and luxurious
outdoor Jacuzzi. Spoil yourself at a fullservice spa featuring massages, facials,
body treatments and more. After you’re
done relaxing, it’s time to play; because
you’re just steps away from Michigan’s
largest gaming floor.
Hungry for more? No matter what
your tastes are, prepare to indulge at
one of Soaring Eagle Properties’ many
dining options.
Enjoy bold Italian flavors at Isabella’s.
Bite into mouthwatering steaks and the
freshest seafood at Siniikaung Steak &
Chophouse. Kick back for classic American favorites 24-7 at Legends Diner. Get
your fill at the Aurora Buffet with a wide
variety of flavors or relax at the Water
Photo: Soaring Eagle Properties
soaring eagle casino & resort
122
Take them to Soaring Eagle Waterpark and Hotel. The fun is always wet
and wild at this 45,000-square-foot
indoor water wonderland. Relax and
float along the Little Beaver’s Bend Lazy
River. Catch a wave on the Flow Rider
surf simulator. Rock-climb to the top of
Makwa’s Mountain and plunge into the
deep waters below. Make a splash on
the three-story water slides: the Loon’s
Loop and Otter’s Run. Visit Biish Falls:
a play area for younger kids featuring a
giant bucket that pours 317 gallons of
water at the command of the mother
eagle nesting above. There’s even an
arcade, family-friendly restaurant, gift
shop and more. Plus the ultimate golf
vacation is only a 9-iron away.
According to Golf Digest, Michigan is
one of the Top 10 states for golf. In fact,
you’ll find one of the best golf courses
right here in mid-Michigan: the executive 18-hole, Waabooz Run Golf Course.
It’s part of Soaring Eagle Properties and
located next to the waterpark.
Want to escape the everyday? Book
your getaway online at SoaringEagleCasino.com. And get ready to experience your every desire destination.S
Soaring Eagle Properties
Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort
888-732-4537
soaringeaglecasino.com
YOUR EVERY DESIRE DESTINATION
Whether you crave the relaxation of a luxuriously carefree resort, or the excitement of our actionpacked casinos, Soaring Eagle Properties has it all. From our waterpark and executive golf course,
to top-name entertainment and exciting dining options, the perfect getaway is waiting for you.
P
R
O P
E
R T
I
E
S
MOTORCOACH PACKAGES: Special pricing on day and overnight trips.
Call 877.2.EAGLE.2 • SoaringEagleCasino.com
Erie, Pennsylvania
presque isle downs & casino
Downs. The buffet is more than just
your normal buffet … it’s an experience! You’ll discover made-fromscratch comfort foods that will leave
your mouth watering for more. Experience our Carano family dishes plus an
assortment of freshly barbecued and
smoked meats, seafood, salads, pastas,
desserts and more!
LBV Steakhouse is second to none.
124
LBV offers a sumptuous menu of
steaks, chops and seafood in an
intimate setting. Simple sophistication … culinary creative at its best.
If fun is what you’re looking for, you’ll find that in our
Downs Clubhouse & Lounge.
This little hideaway is located on
the second floor, which overlooks the mile-long oval track to
enjoy great food, the best Happy
Hours around and the best in
weekend entertainment.
Presque Isle Downs & Casino is located off of I-90; Exit 27 in
Erie, PA. Gambling Problem? Call
1-800-GAMBLER.S
Presque Isle Downs & Casino
The “IN” place for excitement! The thrill of live gaming
action can be found at Eldorado
Resorts Presque Isle Downs &
Casino in Erie, Pennsylvania.
Craps, Blackjack, Roulette, Let
It Ride, Pai Gow Poker, Spanish 21, Three Card Poker Texas
Hold’em, Mississippi Stud, MiniBaccarat and live Poker action. If
slots are your game, you’ve come
to the right place! From pennies
to $100 games and everything in between including the latest progressives
for your winning action.
The excitement of live thoroughbred racing can be found every May
through September! Simulcast racing
is offered year-round from racetracks
across the United States.
You’ll find the most amazing dining
experiences at Eldorado’s Presque Isle
Eldorado Resorts-Presque Isle
Downs & Casino, Erie, Pennsylvania
814-866-8774 or 814-866-8775, groups
presqueisledowns.com
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN
Gather your group and plan a trip to
Potawatomi Hotel & Casino for highenergy gaming, award-winning dining,
bars, live music and luxurious accommodations.
Just blocks from the heart of downtown Milwaukee and open 24 hours
a day, seven days a week, every day of
the year, we’re the perfect stop for your
private group or bus tour.
There’s never a dull moment on our
casino floor—a floor that offers over
3,000 slot machines in the latest themes
and denominations from 1-cent to
$100 (in smoking and non-smoking
locations). For an added thrill, try a
progressive slot machine. One hundred
table games give our guests plenty of
choices, including blackjack, craps, roulette, baccarat, Fortune Pai Gow Poker®
and more. Bingo players will love our
Photo: Potawatomi Hotel & Casino
Potawatomi hotel & casino
expansive 1,440-seat Bingo Hall, averaging more than $75,000 in daily payouts.
Guests can also enjoy the excitement of
off-track betting or a game of poker in
our luxurious 20-table Poker Room.
Seven unique restaurants and an
intimate theater make this the total entertainment package. From an awardwinning steakhouse to Asian cuisine,
Italian, bar & grill, all-you-can-eat
and more, we’ve got all your cravings
covered. Follow an unforgettable meal
with a big-name show at our 500-seat
Northern Lights Theater.
When it’s time to call it a night,
guests will love the convenience of our
19-story, 381-room hotel. It offers our
newest restaurant, Locavore, a coffee
bar, room service, a fitness center and
seven meeting spaces.S
Day Trips: 414-847-7982
Overnight Stays: 414-847-8600
Lisa Pederson 414-847-7982 or
lpederson@paysbig.com to book a day trip
Sales & Catering at 414-847-8600 or
sales@paysbig.com for overnight stays.
Potawatomi Hotel & Casino
800-PAYSBIG or 800-729-7244
paysbig.com
WE LOVE
TO ENTERTAIN.
GATHER YOUR GROUP AND PLAN A TRIP TO POTAWATOMI HOTEL & CASINO
FOR HIGH-ENERGY GAMING, AWARD-WINNING DINING, BARS, LIVE MUSIC AND LUXURIOUS ACCOMMODATIONS.
u
u
u
u
u
u
u
u
u
Over 3,000 Slot Machines
For day trips, contact Lisa Pederson at 414-847-7982
1,440-Seat Bingo Hall
or LPEDERSON@PAYSBIG.COM.
100 Table Games
For overnight stays, contact Sales & Catering at 414-847-8600
20-Table Poker Room
or SALES@PAYSBIG.COM.
Off-Track Betting Room
500-Seat Theater
7 Signature Restaurants
Over 60,000 Square Feet of Banquet Space
19-Story Luxury Hotel—Book your room now!
1721 WEST CANAL STREET • MILWAUKEE, WI 53233 • 1-800-PAYSBIG • PAYSBIG.COM
MUST BE AT LEAST 21 YEARS OLD TO ENTER CASINO; 18 TO PLAY BINGO • WINNERS RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL TAXES • MANAGEMENT RESERVES ALL RIGHTS • GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-426-2535
©2014 FOREST COUNTY POTAWATOMI COMMUNITY, WISCONSIN
ADV14356-Group Tour mag ad.indd 1
10/9/14 10:45 AM
Nov • Dec • Jan
125
Advertiser index
Advertiser......................RSC#.....Pg.
1000 Islands Tourism Council............ 648......... 85.
www.visit1000islands.com
Dearborn County CVB........................ 368......... 23.
www.visitsoutheastindiana.com
Great Lakes Crossing Outlets............ 388......... 31.
www.shopgreatlakescrossing.com
America’s Best Value Inn Mackinaw City.................................. 636......... 34
www.abvimackinawcity.com
Destination Toledo CVB..................... 630......... 50.
www.dotoledo.org
Hampton Inn & Event Center
Burlington/Colchester....................... 111......... 73.
burlington.hamptoninn.com
American Bus Association (ABA)....... 527........... 9.
www.buses.org
Amish Country of Northern Indiana Elkhart County CVB.......................... 102......... 25.
www.amishcountry.org
Baltimore Water Taxi (Harbor Boating).477......... 80.
www.baltimorewatertaxi.com
Beauport Princess Cruiselines, Inc..... 707......... 64.
www.beauportprincess.com
Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre........... 451......... 23.
www.beefandboards.com
Belmont County Tourism Council....... 630......... 50.
www.belmontcountytourism.org
Detroit Metro CVB............................. 388......... 31.
www.visitdetroit.com
Detroit Zoological Society................. 388......... 31.
www.detroitzoo.org
Discover St. Louis Park...................... 270......... 40.
www.discoverstlouispark.com
Discovery Times Square /
TSX Operating Co LLC....................... 525......... 86.
www.discoverytsx.com
Dublin CVB......................................... 629......... 47.
www.irishisanattitude.com
Berkshire Visitors Bureau.................. 411......... 65.
www.berkshires.org
Dutchman Hospitality
& Restaurants................................... 589......... 48.
www.dhgroup.com
Best Western Greenfield Inn.............. 388......... 31.
www.bestwestern.com/greenfieldinn
Duty Free Americas........................... 426....... 106.
www.dutyfreeamericas.com
Birds of Vermont Museum................. 111......... 73.
www.birdsofvermont.org
Eagan CVB......................................... 162....... 128.
www.eaganmn.com
Boston Pops Orchestra/
Boston Symphony............................. 508......... 63.
www.bso.org
Empire Hotel Group........................... 525......... 85.
www.newyorkhotel.com
Broadway.com / Theatre Direct......... 473......... 87.
www.theaterdirect.com
Cambridge/Guernsey County VCB..... 629......... 47.
www.visitguernseycounty.com
Canton/Stark CVB.............................. 630......... 51.
http://www.visitcantonstark.com/
Cincinnati Museum Center................ 630......... 51.
www.cincymuseum.org/groups
Clark-Floyd Counties CTB.................. 499......... 24.
www.sunnysideoflouisville.org
Coldwater Country CVB..................... 690......... 33.
www.discover-michigan.com
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium............ 629......... 47.
www.columbuszoo.org
COSI Ohio’s Center
of Science & Industry....................... 629......... 47.
www.cosi.org
Custom Tours Inc............................... 111......... 73.
www.customtoursinc.com
Dandy Restaurant /
Potomac Party Cruises....................... 137......... 97.
DandyDinnerBoat.com
126
Detroit Institute of Arts..................... 314......... 30.
www.dia.org
Experience Columbus........................ 629......... 46.
www.experiencecolumbus.com
Explore Minnesota Tourism............... 653......... 41.
www.exploreminnesota.com
Felt Mansion...................................... 184......... 29.
www.feltmansion.org
Fireside Theatre................................. 396......... 55.
www.firesidetheatre.com
Fisher Theatre.................................... 388......... 31.
www.broadwayindetroit.com
Ford’s Theatre.................................... 137......... 97.
www.fords.org
Franklin Park Conservatory............... 629......... 47.
www.fpconservatory.org
Frederik Meijer Gardens
& Sculpture Park............................... 386......... 32.
www.meijergardens.org
Gahanna CVB..................................... 629......... 47.
www.visitgahanna.com
Gananoque Boat Line Ltd.................. 398....... 103.
www.ganboatline.com
Grand Hotel....................................... 123......... 34.
www.grandhotel.com
Harley Davidson Museum.................. 396......... 55.
www.h-dmuseum.com
Harrison County CVB......................... 337......... 24.
www.thisisindiana.org
Historic Prison Tours/
Jackson Journeys LLC........................ 535......... 33.
www.historicprisontours.com
Holland Area CVB.............................. 184......... 29.
www.holland.org
Hoosier Park Racing & Casino........... 498......... 22.
www.hoosierpark.com
Independence Seaport Museum........ 419......... 93.
www.phillyseaport.org
Island Transportation......................... 430......... 45.
www.put-in-bay-trans.com
James Whitcomb Riley
Museum Home.................................. 700......... 22.
www.rileykids.org
Janesville Area CVB........................... 343......... 53.
www.janesvillecvb.com
Jelly Belly Center - WI........................ 396......... 55.
www.jellybelly.com
John F Kennedy Library
and Museum..................................... 705......... 64.
www.jfklibrary.org
Kenosha Area CVB............................. 404......... 53.
www.visitkenosha.com
Lake George Area in NY’s Adirondacks
(Warren County
Department of Tourism)................... 151......... 88.
www.visitlakegeorge.com
Lake View Hotel................................. 197......... 35.
www.lake-view-hotel.com
Lehman’s............................................ 680......... 48.
www.lehmans.com
Livingston County CVB...................... 638......... 33.
http://lccvb.org/motorcoach.html
Madison Square Garden
Group Sales...................................... 525......... 86.
www.thegarden.com
Mahoning County CVB....................... 630......... 49.
www.youngstownlive.com
Maid of the Mist Corporation........... 281......... 89.
www.maidofthemist.com
Mall of America................................. 410......... 39.
www.mallofamerica.com
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1. What type of tour planner are you? (choose only one)
n Tour Operator n Group Leader n Travel Agent
n Bank Travel Club n Educator/School Administrator
2. What is your primary job function? (choose only one)
n Owner n Tour Organizer n Tour Marketing/Sales
n Tour Escort n Other___________________________________
3. How many group trips in the United States
and Canada will you plan in the next year?
Day Trips: n None
Overnights: n None
n 1–4
n 1–4
n 5–10
n 5–10
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n 11–19
n 20+
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4. Which types of groups do you plan trips for?
n Retirees n Alumni Clubs n Student/Youth n Bank Travel Clubs
n Church/Religious n Other ______________________________
5. Which types of trips do you plan?
n Sports n Educational n Leisure n Music/Art n Shopping
n Other _______________________________________________
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Advertiser index
Maryland Science Center................... 477......... 80.
www.mdsci.org
Ontario Science Centre...................... 298....... 104.
www.ontariosciencecentre.ca
The Big Apple.................................... 298....... 104.
www.thebigapple.ca/index2.asp
Meet AC (Atlantic City CVA).............. 441......... 83.
www.meetinac.com
Ottawa Little Theatre........................ 694....... 103.
www.ottawalittletheatre.com/html/
The Lodge at Bromley....................... 111......... 73.
www.bromleysunlodge.com
Milwaukee Art Museum.................... 396......... 54.
www.mam.org
Pocono Mountains CVB..................... 247......... 91.
www.800poconos.com
Thunder Bay Resort & Elk Touring..... 117......... 34.
www.thunderbayresort.com
Mirvish Productions........................... 298....... 105.
www.mirvish.com
Potawatomi Hotel & Casino.............. 701....... 125.
www.paysbig.com
Toby’s Dinner Theatre........................ 137......... 97.
www.tobysdinnertheatre.com
Mohegan Sun Casino......................... 703....... 119.
www.mohegansun.com
Presque Isle Downs & Casino............ 704....... 124.
www.CasinoInErie.com
TourismOhio...................................... 630......... 49.
www.discoverohio.com
Motor City Casino.............................. 315....... 117.
www.motorcitycasino.com
Purdue Musical Organizations........... 672......... 21.
www.purdue.edu/pmo
Trumbull County
Tourism Bureau................................. 630......... 51.
www.exploretrumbullcounty.com
Mt. Washington Cog Railway............ 529......... 67.
www.thecog.com
Real Racine County CVB.................... 396......... 55.
www.racine.org
Muskegon County CVB...................... 165......... 32.
www.visitmuskegon.org
Residence Inn by Marriott North Conway
(True North Hotel Group).................. 529......... 67.
www.northconwayresidenceinn.com
National Constitution Center............ 419......... 93.
www.constitutioncenter.org
National Eagle Center....................... 683......... 40.
www.nationaleaglecenter.org
National Museum of American
Jewish History.................................. 419......... 93.
www.nmajh.org
Resorts Atlantic City.......................... 511....... 120.
www.resortsac.com
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada............ 298....... 105.
www.ripleysaquariumofcanada.com
Rolla Area COC.................................. 225......... 43.
www.visitrolla.com
National Tour Association (NTA)........ 681........... 2.
ntaonline.com
Rum Runners Tour.............................. 549....... 108.
www.rumrunnerstour.com
National Underground Railroad
Freedom Ctr...................................... 630......... 50.
www.freedomcenter.org
Sauder Village................................... 630......... 51.
www.saudervillage.org
Newport Mansions............................ 321......... 69.
www.newportmansions.org
Newseum........................................... 137......... 97.
www.newseum.org
Niagara Parks Commission................ 426....... 107.
www.niagaraparks.com
Niagara Tourism and
Convention Corp.............................. 218......... 88.
www.niagara-usa.com
North Shore Music Theatre/
Back Stage Bistro............................. 682......... 64.
www.nsmt.org
Northeastern Ontario
c/o Sudbury Tourism......................... 647....... 108.
www.northeasternontario.com
Ocean City CVB.................................. 613......... 79.
www.ococean.com
Ohio Has It! (OHI).............................. 630......... 49.
www.ohiohasit.com
Ohio Travel Association / OTA............ 228........... 3.
www.ohiotravel.org
One Liberty Observation Deck.......... 419......... 93.
www.phillyfromthetop.com
Sault Ste Marie CVB.......................... 546......... 37.
saultstemarie.com
Seneca / Niagara Casino.................... 615....... 121.
www.senecaniagaracasino.com
Shaw Festival Theatre....................... 426....... 106.
www.shawfest.com
Skylight Music Theatre...................... 396......... 54.
www.skylightmusictheatre.org
Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort.......... 489....... 123.
www.soaringeaglecasino.com
St. Cloud Area CVB............................ 504......... 40.
www.granitecountry.com
Stoughton Chamber of Commerce.... 674......... 53.
www.stoughtonwi.com
Stratford Shakespeare Festival......... 706....... 109.
www.stratfordshakespearefestival.com
Strawbery Banke Museum................. 529......... 67.
www.strawberybanke.org
Tudor Place Historic
House & Garden............................... 137......... 97.
www.tudorplace.org
Tulip Time Festival, Inc...................... 184......... 29.
www.tuliptime.com
Turkey Hill Experience....................... 667......... 92.
www.turkeyhill.com
Tuscarawas County CVB.................... 630......... 51.
www.ohiotimelessadventures.com
Twin America..................................... 137......... 97.
www.twinamerica.com
Twin America..................................... 525......... 86.
www.twinamerica.com
UPTRA................................................ 348......... 36.
www.uptravel.com
Vermont Country Store...................... 111......... 73.
www.vermontcountrystore.com
Vermont Tourism Network................. 111......... 73.
www.vermonttourismnetwork.com
VISIT Grove City Area CVB................. 629......... 47.
www.visitgrovecityoh.com
VISIT Milwaukee................................ 396......... 54.
www.milwaukee.org
Visit Saint Paul................................... 534......... 39.
www.saintpaulgroups.com
Weathervane Seafood....................... 449........... 9.
www.weathervaneseafoods.com
Western Reserve
Historical Society.............................. 373......... 45.
www.wrhs.org
Windmill Island Gardens................... 184......... 29.
www.windmillisland.org
Suburban Inns.................................... 184......... 29.
www.suburbaninns.com/hiex-grandville/
Wyndham Garden
Niagara Falls Fallsview..................... 426....... 106.
www.niagarafallswyndham.com
Sussex County COC............................ 562......... 82.
www.sussexskylands.org
Ye Olde Mill/Velvet Ice Cream........... 629......... 47.
www.velveticecream.com
Nov • Dec • Jan
127
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